Performance Enhancement of EDM Utilizing a Cryogenically Treated Electrode: An Experimental Investigation on Monel 400 Alloy

In recent years, unconventional machine techniques have made the machining process simpler than it was under conventional machining methods. EDM is recognized as one of the leading methods in unconventional machining processes. The need for materials with improved mechanical properties continues to rise due to constant advancements in the mechanical industry. Cryogenic treatment is used for property enhancement and can be useful in an extensive range of metals. This research investigates the performance of a cryogenically treated copper electrode during EDM of Monel 400. The EDM parameters varied during the research are pulse on time, pulse off time, gap voltage, and discharge current. The experiments were designed using Taguchi’s design of experiment. The constraints of the process are fine-tuned for both MRR and surface smoothness, with their proportion impacts assessed through the ANOVA technique. Regression analysis is accomplished, creating an experimental correlation between both MRR and surface smoothness, examined using RSM technique. This comprehensive study demonstrates that cryogenic treatment of electrode provides better MRR and SR.