Optimization of WEDM Parameters for Machining of AZ31B Mg Alloy Using Taguchi Method

This work involves optimization of machining parameters of wire cut Electrical Discharge Machining (WEDM) used for maching of AZ31B magnesium (Mg) alloy with molybednum wire to attain the lowest surface roughness from the process. Mg alloys such as AZ31B are light-weight materials with high potential for industrial applications and used in the manufacture of airframes, aircraft engines, helicopter components, automotive parts and light trucks. L9 orthagonal array with three input parameters such as Voltage (V), Pulse on time (μs) and pulse off time (μs) at three levels are used to conduct the experiments. Taguchi method is utilized to study the effect of these parameters on the surface roughness (SR). From the investigation it was found that pulse on time exert the major influnce on surface roughness while Voltage and pulse off-time have lesser influnces on the process to reduce the surface roughness.