Multi-Objective Optimization in Electro Discharge Machining of Al/B4c Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

Al, B4C metal matrix composites (MMCs) have significant applications in automobiles and nuclear power plants due to its excellent properties compared to other traditional materials. But the machning of MMCs is a big concern and still an area of research. Conventional machining of MMCs causes different problems like high tool wear, poor surface roughness, high machining cost etc.. Therefore, several researchers have used advanced machining methods like EDM, ECM, EBM, AJM etc. for effective machining of composites. EDM can be one of the best Nonconventional machining processes to machine such composites. So in this study EDM have been selected for machining of Al, B4Cp MMCs to get better quality of product and satisfactory machining characteristics. It is also very important to control and optimize the different process parameters of EDM.. Taguchi method can be used for optimization of different process parameters of EDM but Taguchi method is generally used for optimization of single response. EDM process is involved with multiple responses so a multi-objective (hybrid) optimization technique is need to use for optimization purpose. Therefore, in this study we have worked on selection of optimal parameter (machining) setting of EDM on Al/20%B4C composites using a hybrid optimization technique that is TOPSIS combined with Taguchi method. Performance parameters like material removal rate (MRR), tool Wear Rate (TWR) and surface roughness (SR) are used to optimize the machining parameters like current (Ip), voltage (V), pulse on time (Ton) etc using TOPSIS combined with Taguchi method.