Parametric Optimization of Electric Discharge Machining of Metal Matrix Composites Using Analytic Hierarchy Process.

Sarabjeet Singh Sidhu,Preetkanwal Singh Bains,Karim Ravilevich Muratov,Vladislav Vitalyevich Shiryaev,Timur Rizovich Ablyaz,Evgeny Sergeevich Shlykov

doi:10.3390/mi12111289

Abstract

The present study reports on the method used to obtain the reliable outcomes for different responses in electric discharge machining (EDM) of metal matrix composites (MMCs). The analytic hierarchy process (AHP), a multiple criteria decision-making technique, was used to achieve the target outcomes. The process parameters were varied to evaluate their effect on the material erosion rate (MER), surface roughness (SR), and residual stresses (σ) following Taguchi’s experimental design. The process parameters, such as the electrode material (Cu, Gr, Cu-Gr), current, pulse duration, and dielectric medium, were selected for the analysis. The residual stresses induced due to the spark pulse temperature gradient between the electrode were of primary concern during machining. The optimum process parameters that affected the responses were selected using AHP to figure out the most suitable conditions for the machining of MMCs.

Highlights

A brittle constituent, i.e., reinforcement, is embedded in the metal matrix [1,2,3].The combined properties of these constituents in metal matrix composites (MMCs) allow for high strength and fractural properties to be attained, as well as high temperature resistance, making them suitable for applications in the automobile and aviation industries, such as braking systems, piston rods, piston pins, and brake discs [4]
The material (65vol% SiC/A356.2 metal matrix composite) used in the study was procured in rectangular plates from CPS, Boston, MA, USA
The other specimen used in this experiment was a hybrid metal matrix composite with 10vol% SiC-5vol% quartz in aluminum, which was prepared using the in-house stir-casting method

Summary

Introduction

A brittle constituent, i.e., reinforcement, is embedded in the metal matrix [1,2,3].The combined properties of these constituents in MMCs allow for high strength and fractural properties to be attained, as well as high temperature resistance, making them suitable for applications in the automobile and aviation industries, such as braking systems, piston rods, piston pins, and brake discs [4] These composites are used as thermal management solutions for high energy density miniature electronic components, such as microprocessor lids, flip-chip lids, and microwave housing, and can replace high-cost materials such as titanium-based alloy [5,6,7]

Objectives

Methods

Conclusion