An exploratory study on process parameters impacting on quality of crankshaft grinding: A real world manufacturing use case

Abstract

Grinding is a critical finishing stage of most of the machined products. It directly influence the surface integrity, dimensional accuracy and product performance. But the studying about interaction between process parameters and quality outcomes are complex, since measuring of parameters are complicated. In the thesis, findings from systematic literature review (SLR), an exploratory data analysis (EDA) of quality data and evaluation of qualitative data via interviewing industry experts and academic researchers are presented. A mixed methodology is used, combining findings of systematic literature review, thematic analysis of interview inputs and exploratory data analysis of quality data. The most critical process parameters such as depth of cut, wheel speed, workpiece speed, feed rate were affecting surface integrity, dimensional accuracy and production efficiency were identified via systematic literature review. Thematic analysis provided additional details such as dressing intervals, coolant behavior, machine conditions and material properties. The study further combined with a dashboard integrated with defect analysis. Overall, this study provides a structured understanding of grinding parameters towards crankshaft quality and discuss about future developments connected with data-driven decision making.