Optimization of EDM Parameters for Al – TiC Composites Prepared through Powder Metallurgy Route

This work focuses on the behavior of Aluminum (AP50) reinforced with Titanium Carbide Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) during machining in Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) process. While machining a MMC through conventional machining process poor surface finish and lower metal removal rate are experienced. Hence the nonconventional machining technique EDM is the best alternate to machine intricate shape in MMC. The material used in this study is Aluminum (AP 50) with 3 proportions of TiC (i.e., 2.5%, 5% and 7.5%). The machining is performed by varying the Pulse On time, Pulse Off time and Peak Current while other parameters such as Dielectric flushing pressure, Electrode feed rate and Applied voltage are kept unchanged. The parameter optimization is performed using Taguchi techniques. It is found that increase in Metal removal rate and reduction in surface roughness is achieved with the 2.5% percentage TiC reinforcement. It is also found that the metal removal rates as well as surface roughness are more influenced by the parameters Peak Current and Pulse on Time. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.mech.24.1.18951