Optimization of Wedm Parameters on Machining of Al7075 Based Hybrid MMCs

Abstract

This investigation is aimed towards the optimization of wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) parameters of the hybrid MMCs consisting of aluminium alloy (Al7075) reinforced with boron carbide (B4C) and alumina (Al2O3) particles at four distinct volume fractions. The effect of important WEDM parameters such as pulse-on (TON), pulse-off (TOFF), gap voltage (V) and wire feed (F) on material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (Ra) are studied. The experiments are carried out as per L9 orthogonal array (OA) using design of experiments (DOE) approach. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is used to identify significant parameters for achieving higher MRR and lower Ra. From the study, it is observed that increase in percentage volume fraction of the reinforcements resulted with decrease in MRR but increase in the Ra value. Regression equations are presented to represent the relationship between input and output parameters.