Optimization of μEDM process assisted with rotating magnetic pulling force and ultrasonic vibration

The micro-electrical discharge machining process is hindered by low material removal rate and low surface quality, which bound its capability. The assistance of ultrasonic vibration and magnetic pulling force in micro-electrical discharge machining helps to overcome this limitation and increase the stability of the machining process. In the present research, an attempt has been made on Taguchi based GRA optimization for µEDM assisted with ultrasonic vibration and magnetic pulling force while µEDM of SKD-5 die steel with the tubular copper electrode. The process parameters such as ultrasonic vibration, magnetic pulling force, tool rotation, energy and feed rate have been chosen as process variables. Material removal rate and taper of the feature have been selected as response measures. From the experimental study, it has been found that response output measures have been significantly improved by 18% as compared to non assisted µEDM. The best optimal combination of input parameters for improved performance measures were recorded as machining with ultrasonic vibration (U1), 0.25 kgf of magnetic pulling force (M1), 600 rpm of tool rotation (R2), 3.38 mJ of energy (E3) and 1.5 mm/min of Tool feed rate (F3). The confirmation trail was also carried out for the validation of the results attained by Grey Relational Analysis and confirmed that there is a substantial improvement with both assistance applied simultaneously.