Desirability Approach Machining Study on Aluminum Composite Through Wire-Cut Electric Discharge Technique

Aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) are exceptionally designed for automobile components like brake pads, cylinder body, and pistons owing to high temperature and wear resistance. Machining is a paramount issue to achieve required dimensions and tolerance for those products. The present investigation includes fabrication of composite and wire-cut electric discharge machining with various parameters. AMC designed by B₄C and CNT particles of hybrid composite was fabricated by liquid metallurgy process. Carbon nanotubes were added to tailor the high temperature withstanding and reduce friction during the sliding. The role of B₄C is to improve the hardness and wear resistance of the composite. The combined actions of these reinforcements enhance overall mechanical properties of the composite. The objective of the present work is to study the machinability aspects of the composite by wire-cut EDM. Input machining parameters considered are pulse on time, pulse off time, wire feed, gap in voltage, and servo speed. Kerf width and material removal rate were studied with response surface method (RSM). Pulse on time and voltage increase the material removal rate; however, voltage has a more relatively significant effect on the MRR.