Optimization of Electro Discharge Machining Parameters on Mg/SiCP-Metal Matrix Composites by Response Surface Methodology

Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) are present engineering materials which have more advantages when compare to conventional materials. Magnesium based MMCs among the MMCs have become an important research subject because of their low density and high strength/weight ratio in recent years. The aim of this study is to find out the most influence factors of the electro-discharge machining (EDM) process parameters. The specimens were used as Mg/SiCp metal matrix composites. The specimens were prepared by the powder metallurgy techniques. Brass tool with diameter of 10mm was used to machine the specimens. Experiments were conducted under different conditions of pulse on time (Ton), pulse off time (Toff), current (I). The output responses measured were material removal rate (MRR) and Tool wear rate (TWR). Mathematical models are proposed for the above responses using response surface methodology (RSM). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was carried out to study the effect of process parameters on process performance.