A new long term (strategic) ranking model for machining center selection decisions based on the review of machining center structural components using triangular fuzzy numbers

A new machining center selection methodology that aims to optimize the long-term machining performance is developed in this paper. In the developed model, the structural machining center components that are critical in the long-term machining performance are evaluated and scored to obtain a ranking for alternative machine centers. The proposed machining center selection model uses fuzzy triangular numbers in ranking the machining centers according to their machining performance in the long-term perspective. The developed model differs from the conventional machining center selection models by providing a ranking in terms of stiffness, thermal stability, accuracy, and damping capacity criteria instead of the usage of the technical data available in the machining centers’ catalogues.