Multi-attribute decision-making of cryogenically cooled micro-EDM drilling process parameters using TOPSIS method

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe geometrical characteristics of the micro-holes along with the performance measures are matter of critical concern in micro-electrical discharge machining (μEDM) process. This paper presents the multi-attribute decision-making of cryogenically cooled micro-EDM (CμEDM) drilling process. Current (Ip), pulse on duration (Ton), pulse off duration (Toff), and gap voltage (Vg) were the input process parameters preferred to optimize the multiple responses of geometrical characterization including taper angle (TA), overcut (OC), circularity at the entry and exit (Cent and Cexit), and performance measures including material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate (TWR), and average roughness (Ra). The Taguchi-based L27 orthogonal array (OA) is used to carry out the experimental runs, and technique for order of preference by similarity ideal solution (TOPSIS) approach is used for the identification of optimal parameters on AISI 304 stainless steel. The optimized result achieved from this approach suggests improved TA, OC, Cent, Cexit, MRR, and lower TWR, surface roughness (SR) with the combinations of CμEDM drilling process such as Ip of 15 A, Ton of 10 µs, Toff of 30 µs, and Vg of 30 V. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to identify the major influencing parameter.