Parameter Optimization of Electro-Discharge Machining (EDM) in AISI D2 Die Steel using Taguchi Technique

Objectives: To find the important parameters that affects the performance output (i.e.) to boost the Material Removal Rate (MRR) of the workpiece. Methods: Electro–Discharge Machining (EDM) is a thermal based machining process which is used to remove ‘hard to cut materials’ with complex shapes. The principle with the EDM or spark eroding machining is that the unwanted materials are removed with the repeated current discharges between cathode and the anode, separated by a dielectric fluid and is subjected to an electric voltage. Findings: This paper investigates in optimizing the process variables of EDM by employing a traditional technique. The parameters chosen for optimization are pulse on time, pulse off time followed by the current and L9 Orthogonal Array (OA) has been selected to examine the impact of the process variables on the performance i.e. on the material removal rate. The experimental trials have been done on AISI D2 die steel with positive polarity and brass has been chosen as an electrode material. Applications: Mainly, the EDM are employed to machine difficult to cut materials like nickel base super alloys, titanium etc.