Multi-objective optimization of process parameter in EDM using low-frequency vibration of workpiece assigned for SKD61

Abstract

Integrated vibration in electrical discharge machining (EDM) plays a key role in achieving high efficiency. High levels of variables can be employed in this approach due to integration. However, simultaneous optimization of the EDM parameters to achieve multi-objectives is still very complex and challenging. Studies on integrated vibration are still in a preliminary stage. This report addresses multi-objective optimization in EDM for SKD61 die steel using low-frequency vibration. MOORA (Multi-objective optimization based on ratio analysis) was chosen to resolve this multi-objective optimization problem. The material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate (TWR) and surface roughness (SR) were selected as performance measures in the EDM process. An analytical hierarchical process (AHP) was used to determine the weight value of the quality indicators. The results indicate that low-frequency vibrations significantly improve machining efficiency. When the frequency of the vibrations increased, MRR increased significantly such that MRRMAX = 64.48%. TWR and SR are smaller and their increase are given as TWRMAX = 20.3% and SRMAX = 18.47%. MOORA has been identified as a suitable alternative to multi-objective optimization in an EDM process using low-frequency vibrations for an assigned workpiece. The optimum parameters required to achieve the multi-objective were Ton = 25 μs, I = 8 A, Tof = 5.5 μs and F = 512 Hz, at the resultant quality criteria of MRR = 9.564 mm3/min, TWR = 1.944 mm3/min and SR = 3.24 µm with a maximum error of 8.24%.