Effect of cryogenic treated brass wire electrode on material removal rate in wire electrical discharge machining

Abstract

In this article, the effect of cryogenic treatment on the brass wire electrode used in wire electrical discharge machining is investigated. Deep cryogenic (−184°C) treatment is given to the brass wire electrode. The microstructure and crystalline phase of deep and non-cryogenic treated brass wire electrodes is observed by scanning electron microscope and X-Ray diffraction. The experimental results show that the structure is more refined in deep cryogenic treatment as compared to non-cryogenic treatment. The electrical conductivity of deep electrode is greatly improved. The effect of deep cryogenic treatment on the brass wire electrode is also investigated for the performance of wire electrical discharge machining. Taguchi experimental design has been applied to investigate the optimal parameters for maximum material removal rate. The ANOVA analysis indicates that type of wire, pulse width, time between two pulses and wire tension are significant factors for maximization of material removal rate. The cryogenic treatment results in improved material removal rate.