Optimization of WEDM Process Parameters Using a Hybrid Multi-Criteria Decision Making Approach

Abstract

The effectiveness of the manufactured parts is typically measured by more than one performance characteristics. Hence the manufacturing engineers frequently experience the difficulty in optimizing the multiple responses at a time. The present work is to explore the effect of wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) process parameters in machining of Aluminum metal matrix composite (AMMC). The multiple performance characteristics  of material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (R_a) are optimized concurrently using a hybrid multi-criteria decision making process called preference selection index (PSI) method coupled with desirability grey analysis. Twenty seven (L27) experiments were conducted for the three process parameters namely pulse time on (P_on), pulse time off (P_off) and peak current (I_p) each at three different levels. The results concluded that P_on is the most influencing factor in affecting the multi-response.