Experimental Investigation of Optimization of Process Parameters for Machining Non-Conducting Material by ECDM

Electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) has potential for machining of non-conductive materials as compared with different existing conventional and non-conventional machining methods. The present work includes the analysis of basic material removal mechanism and its effect on material removed weight. The ECDM process is influenced by various process parameters such as the applied voltage, the electrode gap, the temperature, concentration and type of electrolyte, the shape, size and material of the electrodes and the nature of the power supply etc. Keeping in view, the influences of the various process parameters of ECDM process, this paper explains work of optimization of the three parameters viz., (1) Electrolyte concentration (C), (2) Interelectrode gap (G), (3) Duty factor (D). NaOH solution with varying concentration as an electrolyte was taken as important parameter. A pulsed DC electric supply has been utilized for the machining of glasswork samples. In addition, an attempt has been made through these sets of investigation to explore the influence of rotating tool with half cut geometry for greater machining rate and accuracy.