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Optimization of EDM process for multiple performance characteristics using Taguchi method and Grey relational analysis

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Abstract

Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is one of the most extensively used non-conventional material removal processes. The Taguchi method has been utilized to determine the optimal EDM conditions in several industrial fields. The method, however, was designed to optimize only a single performance characteristic. To remove that limitation, the Grey relational analysis theory has been used to resolve the complicated interrelationships among the multiple performance characteristics. In the present study, we attempted to find the optimal machining conditions under which the micro-hole can be formed to a minimum diameter and a maximum aspect ratio. The Taguchi method was used to determine the relations between machining parameters and process characteristics. It was found that electrode wear and the entrance and exit clearances had a significant effect on the diameter of the micro-hole when the diameter of the electrode was identical. Grey relational analysis was used to determine the optimal machining parameters, among which the input voltage and the capacitance were found to be the most significant. The obtained optimal machining conditions were an input voltage of 60V, a capacitance of 680pF, a resistance of 500Ω, the feed rate of 1.5μm/s and a spindle speed of 1500rpm. Under these conditions, a micro-hole of 40μm average diameter and 10 aspect ratio could be machined.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mechanical and Information Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul, 130-743, Korea

    Jong Hyuk Jung & Won Tae Kwon

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  1. Jong Hyuk Jung
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  2. Won Tae Kwon
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Correspondence to Won Tae Kwon.

Additional information

This paper was recommended for publication in revised form by Associate Editor Dae-Eun Kim

Jong Hyuk Jung received his B.S. and M.S in Mechanical Information Engineering from University of Seoul. He is currently an associate director in Industrial Application R&D Institute in DAEWOO SHIPBUILDING & MARINE ENGINEERING. He is involved in developing robots for productivity improvement and systems for welding and painting automation.

Won Tae Kwon received his B.S., M.S. degree from Seoul National University, and Ph.D. degree from Northwestern University in 1982, 1984 and 1992, respectively. Prof. Kwon is currently a Professor of the Department of Mechanical and Information Engineering of University of Seoul, Korea. His research fields include micro machining and machining process optimization.

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Jung, J.H., Kwon, W.T. Optimization of EDM process for multiple performance characteristics using Taguchi method and Grey relational analysis. J Mech Sci Technol 24, 1083–1090 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-010-0305-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-010-0305-8

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