Optimization-Related Studies of EDMed Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites: A State-of-the-Art Review

Abstract

Electrical discharge machining is a flattering non-conventional material removal process which uses energy instead of tool to remove materials. This process has capability to machine virtually any electrical conductive and extremely hard metallic materials such as metal matrix composites, aluminum metal matrix composites, duplex steel, nickel, and titanium alloys. These materials are difficult to machine by conventional process because of high cost of tool, rapid tool wear, low materials removal rate which leads to formation of build-up edges, poor surface finish and burr formations. In order to machine these materials by electrical discharge machining, machining performance will be appropriate. Many researchers have suggested a lot of appropriate ways to improved machining of these materials by analyzing the process parameters of electrical discharge machining. These studies show that machining of these materials can be improved by proper selection of process parameters. This article shows the review of experimental and theoretical studies carried out so far in the field of electrical discharge machining. This article also explored the optimization techniques used to determine process parameters for EDMed aluminum metal matrix composites.