Investigation of Machining Parameters and Surface Quality of AZ-31 Magnesium Alloy Subjected to Spark Machining †

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Engineering Proceedings

Abstract

Magnesium alloys are commonly used in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, electrical, medical, sports, etc. The material is preferred in the making of engine blocks, transmission cases, and structural parts due to its unique material properties, like being lightweight and durable. It also offers a good strength-to-weight ratio and directly contributes to the fuel efficiency of vehicles. Due to its usage in various industries, it is essential to understand its behavior under machining. But the machining of magnesium alloys can present significant challenges compared to other conventional structural metals and alloys. The research work focuses on investigating the application of a Plug Electrical Discharge Machine (EDM) for machining the AZ-31 magnesium alloy and aims to analyze the surface quality of the machined surface for selected input parameters. The experiments were conducted on a mirror-finished flat specimen while keeping the incision depth and servo voltage constant at 0.3 mm and 45 V, respectively. A copper tool was used to make nine unique incisions on the surface using selected values of pulse on-time (Ton), pulse off-time (Toff), and current (I). A surface analysis using optical microscopy revealed that the surface roughness increased drastically with a combination of high values of I, Ton, and Toff. The tests conducted using a profilometer confirmed the proportional relationship between the input parameters and the surface roughness of the AZ-31 magnesium alloy.

DOI

10.3390/engproc2023059135

Publication Date

1-1-2023

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS