Characterisation of Micro Channels in Electrochemical Discharge Machining Process

Micromachining techniques has increased the demand for precise and accurate instruments which are used in many industries. Glass materials offer higher challenges in micro machining as they are tough, non-conducting and difficult to machine with conventional machining operations. Electro Chemical Discharge Machining (ECDM) is a new non-conventional hybrid machining process which combines the features of Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) and Electro Chemical Machining (ECM) to machine both conducting and nonconducting materials. In the present paper effect of various process parameters like voltage, concentration of electrolyte, duty factor and temperature on ECDM process are studied to obtain desired micro channels in soda lime glass. Design of Experiment (DOE) is used to plan and conduct the experiments. The Response Surface Modelling (RSM) is used for characterising non linear output responses in terms of material removal rate and surface finish. Modeled results are validated with experimental values.