Optimization of WEDM Process Parameters of EN47 Spring Steel Based On Roughness Using Taguchi Method

摘要

The present paper deals with the experimental study of roughness (R_a) characteristics of EN 47 spring steel in WEDM and optimization of the machining process parameters based on L_(27) orthogonal design. Experiments are carried out by utilizing the combination of four process parameters namely, pulse on time (T_(on)), pulse off time (T_(off)), wire feed (WF) and gap voltage (V). The optimum combination of process parameters for minimum roughness is obtained as T_(on)3T_(off)3WF1V1 i.e., highest levels of pulse on time and pulse off time along with lower level of wire feed and gap voltage. Furthermore, a statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA) is performed to find the significance of machining parameters and their interactions. It is observed that pulse on time together with wire feed play a vital role in controlling the roughness characteristics of EN 47 spring steel. A reduction of around 26% is observed in roughness at the optimal condition compared to the initial condition. The composition of specimen material is studied with the help of chemical test.