Performance analysis of powder assisted reverse micro electric discharge machining (µ-EDM)

Abstract

Reverse micro electrical discharge machining (R-µEDM) is a technique of electrical discharge machining (EDM). This process used to produce arrayed micro features having high aspect ratio. These high aspect ratio micro features are used as electro for the EDM to make arrayed micro hole on workpiece. Arrayed micro features help to improve productivity. This paper highlights the R-µEDM and powder assisted R-µEDM processes. Focus is on the comparison of R-µEDM process and powder assisted R-µEDM, effect of process parameter on both the process and fabricating micro projected parts. Micro projected parts are fabricated using 3*3 arrayed tool electrode which is having 500 µm diameters. Graphite powder mixed with EDM oil to perform experimentation of powder assisted R-µEDM process. Graphite powder has 60 mesh grain sizes. Capacitance, voltage and pulse on time (POT) are process parameters while aspect ratio and dimensional variation in percentage are response parameter. Graphite powder mixed in EDM oil it improves performance of R-µEDM process.