Researchers optimize AWJM parameters for Al6061 hybrid composites

Researchers optimized abrasive water jet machining parameters for an Al6061 hybrid composite using regression models and multi-criteria optimization. The study, published in Scientific Reports on June 29, 2026, found that abrasive flow rate dominated material removal rate while jet cutting speed governed surface roughness and kerf taper angle. The optimal settings achieved were AFR 430 g/min, WJP 280 MPa, AJCS 80 mm/min, SOD 1.5 mm, and grit size 120 mesh.

Editorial analysis: For ML practitioners applying supervised models to manufacturing processes, this paper demonstrates a compact workflow that pairs regression models with multi-criteria optimization to predict and tune abrasive water jet machining outcomes. According to a Scientific Reports preprint published 29 June 2026, the study evaluates AWJM performance of an Al6061-0.5 wt.% B4C-1 wt.% ZrO2 hybrid composite fabricated using ultrasonic-assisted stir casting. The article reports experimental ranges of material removal rate MRR 7.86 to 15.24 mm^3/min , surface roughness Ra 3.220 to 3.980 um , and kerf taper angle KTA 0.142 degrees to 0.309 degrees . ANOVA results reported that abrasive flow rate AFR dominated MRR while abrasive jet cutting speed AJCS governed Ra and KTA. The paper applies a hybrid Grey Relational Analysis-Analytic Hierarchy Process GRA-AHP to optimize multiple objectives and develops SVR , RF , and MLP models to predict MRR, Ra, and KTA; the reported optimal AWJM setting was AFR 430 g/min , WJP 280 MPa , AJCS 80 mm/min , SOD 1.5 mm , and grit size 120 mesh .