Experimental investigation of kerf characteristics through wire electrochemical spark cutting of alumina epoxy nanocomposite

Abstract

Alumina epoxy nanocomposite (AENC) is an emerging class of composites with a wide range of functionality and applicability; however, managing AENC using a machine is difficult because of its special mixed characteristics. The presence of extremely hard alumina particles in soft epoxy matrix enhances material properties. The present work investigates the kerf characteristics of a straight cut made in AENC through Wire electrochemical spark cutting (WECSC) process. The kerf characteristics, such as kerf deviation and taper, are used to measure the cut quality. The applied voltage, electrolyte concentration, wire velocity, pulse on-time and pulse off-time are varied, and their effects on the kerf characteristics are experimentally investigated in a developed setup. Influencing parameters for straight cutting of AENC are applied voltage, concentration of electrolyte and wire velocity.