Optimization of activated TIG welding parameters for improving weld joint strength of AISI 4135 PM steel by genetic algorithm and simulated annealing

Weld quality is a very important working aspect of the manufacturing and construction industries. In this research work, an attempt has been made to optimize the parameters of activated tungsten inert gas (A-TIG) welding of sintered hot-forged AISI 4135 steel produced through the powder metallurgy route. Experiments were performed based on Taguchi L9 orthogonal array. Response surface methodology was used to create regression equations, and process parameters were optimized using genetic algorithm (GA) and simulated annealing (SA). Process parameter optimization is multi-input to single output (tensile strength), in which the quality of output depends upon input parameters like current, voltage, welding speed, and gas flow rate. The present study was conducted to maximize the output of the A-TIG welding of sintered hot-forged AISI 4135 steel and fix the input parameters. The results indicate that the voltage and current have a maximum influence on tensile strength in A-TIG-welded joint. Confirmation experiments have also been conducted to validate the optimized parameters.