Investigate the Optimal Combination of Process Parameters for EDM by Using a Grey Relational Analysis

Abstract Electro-discharge machining (EDM) is a non-conventional machining process which has the ability to machine hard, difficult-to- machine materials and the parts with complex internal shapes by using precisely controlled sparks that occurs between an electrode and a work piece in the presence of a dielectric fluid. This spark removes material from both the electrode and work piece. So, Material removal rate (MRR) and Tool wear rate (TWR) both are of crucial importance in this process. The objective of this paper is to investigate the optimal combination of process parameters for ‘maximum MRR and minimum TWR’ on mach inability of carbon fiber epoxy composites with copper-cadmium tool by using a grey relational analysis method. Peak current (I p ), gap voltage (V g ), pulse on time (T on ) and duty cycle (η) are four major process parameters with suitably three levels. L9 standard orthogonal array has been used to perform the experiment. There are multiple performance characteristics so by using multi-objective optimization technique that is grey relational analysis, the optimal value of MRR and TWR are obtained. Grey relational grade which is obtained by applying grey relational analysis is used to identify the optimal combination of process parameters.