Optimization of process parameters for spark plasma sintered magnesium-based composite using Taguchi method

Optimizing the process parameters for magnesium-based composites is essential to enhance their mechanical and physical properties, thereby ensuring optimal performance in diverse applications such as aerospace, automotive, and biomedical sectors. In this work, an attempt has been made to optimize the sintering parameters of Mg-based composites fabricated through spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique. An L9 orthogonal array was employed for parameters; sintering temperature (Ts), sintering force (Fs), and holding time (HTs). By combining an orthogonal array with ANOVA, the study identifies the pivotal parameter influencing density and macrohardness of the magnesium samples with a 95% confidence level. The results highlighted that the dominant factor affecting macrohardness was the sintering temperature, while each parameter had no impact on density. The developed models for macrohardness and density demonstrated exceptional predictive accuracy when compared to experimental data.