Optimization of cavitation peening parameters for fatigue performance of carburized steel using Taguchi methods

In this study, the effects of surface characteristics on the improvement of fatigue strength of carburized chrome-molybdenum steel subjected to surface treatment by cavitation peening (CP) was investigated. Optimal conditions for the critical factors affecting fatigue strength were sought using design of experiment (DOE). The theoretical optimal values were in agreement with experimental observations. The relation between variables and experimental factors has been shown using response surface methodology (RSM). Cavitation number had the greatest influence on fatigue strength. The fatigue strength of cavitation peened specimen yielded better results than shot peened specimen.