Optimization of Process Parameters in Electric Discharge Machining for SS420 Using Taguchi Technique

With growing need through the competitive industrial world, there is acute need of ultra precision while machining the given material through different machining processes, primarily non- traditional machining (NTM) processes. Thus it’s needed to realize the specified output by regulating the process parameter as per the requirement. This has given rise to a scenario which needs the data of optimum values of varied input parameters to maximize or minimize the desired output. Though there are different methods available, still Taguchi Method is one of the capable methods for modeling of such problems. This paper deals with optimization of Electric Discharge Machining process parameters for SS420 based on the Taguchi technique. Also the effect of Gap voltage, Current, Duty Cycle and Pulse on Time output responses on the EDM has been investigated. The Material Removal Rate (MRR) is taken as output responses for the investigation. The experiment is designed by Taguchi methodology orthogonal array (L16). These have been conducted on the SS420 utilizing copper as Tool electrode by taking four levels of each factor. It is found that the Pulse on Time is the most significant factor to affect MRR and Gap Voltage is least. The result showed that the Gap voltage of 45 V, Current of 10 A, Duty Cycle of 96% and Pulse on time 100 µ/s bears the optimal quality characteristics.