Multi-Objective Optimization in Electro Discharge Machining of Al/Al2O3 Metal Matrix Composite

Abstract

In recent years, Al/Al2O3 metal matrix composites are gaining more attention in manufacturing industries particularly in aerospace and automobile industries due to their excellent mechanical properties. So, it became necessary for manufacturers to study the machining behavior of these composites. Addition of Al2O3 as a reinforcing material helps in improving the mechanical properties of composite. In the present research work the Al/Al2O3 composite was prepared by powder metallurgy method and then non convention machining process mainly electro discharge machining (EDM) is used for machining of metal matrix composites. In this study, three machining parameters such as pulse duration (Ton), discharge current (Ip) and duty cycle (t) have been taken to assess their influence on material removal rate (MRR), surface roughness (Ra) and tool wear rate (TWR). The study also utilizes the desirability function approach integrated with Taguchi has been used to generate the optimal machining condition.