Nano Graphite Powder Assisted Electric Discharge Machining Characteristics of ZM21 Magnesium Alloy

Abstract

Magnesium alloys are used in many applications, particularly in orthopaedic implants are very difficult to machine by conventional processes because of their complex 3D structure and limited slip system at room temperature. Hence there is an inherent need for alternative processes for machining such intricate profiles. Electric Discharge Machining is growing rapidly in tool rooms, die shops and even in general shop floors of modern industries to facilitate complex machining for difficult-to-machine materials and provide better surface integrity. Therefore, the use of electric discharge machining on ZM21 magnesium alloy is attempted in this paper. Nanographite powder is added for machining zone to enhance the electrical conductivity of EDM oil by way it improves the machining performance. Machining parameters such as the current, pulse on time and pulse off time were process parameters to explore their effects on the material removal rate and tool wear rate. It is observed that, an increased material removal rate was due to the enhanced electrical and thermal conductivity of the EDM oil.

Recent Trends and Developments in the Electrical Discharge Machining Industry: A Review

“…In Pm-EDM, the most significant control variables influencing the bio-favorable surface were dielectric, pulse duration, and current for the surface treated [152]. Using nano-HAp in the PM-EDM cycle, Prakash et al [154] examined the properties of the modified surface of the magnesium alloy. According to their research, adding HAp Using nano-HAp in the PM-EDM cycle, Prakash et al [154] examined the properties of the modified surface of the magnesium alloy.…”

“…Using nano-HAp in the PM-EDM cycle, Prakash et al [154] examined the properties of the modified surface of the magnesium alloy. According to their research, adding HAp Using nano-HAp in the PM-EDM cycle, Prakash et al [154] examined the properties of the modified surface of the magnesium alloy. According to their research, adding HAp during machining increased the treated surface's microhardness and corrosion resistance by 1.5 times and 90.85%, respectively.…”

Archives of Metallurgy and Materials

“…Aluminum and graphite nano-powders mixed dielectric fluid in the edM process of magnesium alloys helps to improve the MRR due to effective discharge breakdown between the tool and workpiece. The results show that the most influencing parameters are pulse on time and current [12,13]. Brass, copper, aluminum, tungsten mixed with copper, and gRAl-20 (composite tool) were taken as tool materials for machining AZ91/5B 4 C p material matrix composite in the edM process.…”