Modelling and optimization of EDM process parameters on machining of Al 7075/SiC metal matrix composite by applying Response Surface Method

摘要

The newly engineered metal matrix composite (MMC) of aluminium 7075 reinforced with 10 wt.% of SiC particles were prepared by stir casting method. Electrical discharge machining (EDM) was employed to machine MMC with copper electrode. The experiment plan adopted face centered central composite design of response surface methodology. Analysis of variance was applied to investigate the influence of process parameters and their interactions, viz. pulse current, gap voltage, pulse on time and pulse off time, on material removal rate (MRR), electrode wear ratio (EWR) and surface roughness (SR). The objective was to identify the significant process parameters that affect the output characteristics. Further a mathematical model has been formulated by applying response surface method in order to estimate the machining characteristics such as MRR, EWR and SR.