Title: Design and fabrication of control system-based ISO pulse generator for electrical discharge machining

Authors: T. Muthuramalingam; B. Mohan

Addresses: Department of Production Technology, Anna University Chennai, Chennai, MIT Campus, Chromepet, Tamilnadu, 600044, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Anna University Chennai, Chennai, CEG Campus, Guindy, Tamilnadu, 600025, India

Abstract: Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is good example for mechatronics application, in which, the material is removed by thermal energy. The thermal energy is produced by applying DC pulses between tool electrode and work piece. The characteristics of DC pulses are determined by the pulse generators. Due to its high material removal nature, transistor pulse train generator is commonly employed. Since EDM process has stochastic nature, transistor pulse generator produces high surface roughness. To produce better product quality, a constant discharging current is needed throughout the process. In this research, an ISO duration current pulse generator has been designed and developed for obtaining good surface finish. It is found that modified ISO pulse generator could produce better surface finish.

Keywords: DC pulses; transistor pulse generator; ISO pulse generator; discharge energy; discharge current; surface finish; material removal rate; MRR; thermal energy; switching device; electrical discharge machining; electro-discharge machining; EDM; mechatronics; surface roughness; surface quality.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMS.2013.053823

International Journal of Mechatronics and Manufacturing Systems, 2013 Vol.6 No.2, pp.133 - 143

Received: 12 May 2012
Accepted: 17 Jul 2012

Published online: 12 Jul 2014 *

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