Powder Mixed Electrical Discharge Machining (PMEDM)

Abstract

Electrical discharge machining (EDM) has established its position as a superior machining technique for processing conductive materials. The inclusion of micro/nano-powders in the dielectric was a significant modification in its operational dynamics, brought forth in the efforts to improve the process responses, namely, the material removal rate (MRR), the tool wear rate (TWR), the surface roughness (SR), the recast layer thickness (RLT), and the formation/existence of surface defects (SD). This modified EDM technique, generally referred to as the powder mixed electrical discharge machining (PMEDM) process, has been in the mainstream as the nodal area of research in the subject domain. In recent times, EDM and PMEDM processes are explored for their potential to act as surface modifications or coating techniques to deposit layers with unique physical and chemical properties on specific materials for targeted applications. Consequently, it is essential to explore the state of the art PMEDM process to critically review and understand its pros and cons, and to explore its prospects and application potential for the future.