Slant type taper profiling and prediction of profiling speed for a circular profile during in wire electric discharge machining using Hastelloy-X

Abstract

Hastelloy-X a nickel-based alloy used in nozzles, flame holders, turbine blades, turbocharges, jet engine tailpipes, afterburner components etc. having complex tapering profiles. Wire electric discharge machining proves to be the most beneficial machining technique as it provides required accuracy for the components. In the present research, a slant type taper fixture is employed for achieving taper angles as convention tapering have many hindrances like wire bend, angular inaccuracy, guide wear, insufficient flushing and wire breakage etc. and machining a simple circular profile on Hastelloy-X. The behaviour of different output parameters like profiling speed, surface roughness, profile areas, microhardness and recast layer were investigated for various input parameters for machined taper components at 0°, 15° and 30°. The cutting speed override parameter influenced most on the profiling speed and surface roughness. The wire offset parameter was found to be the most significant factor in the case of circular profile areas that were machined. The variation of different output parameters to profiling/cutting speed and taper angle was also highlighted. It is found the recast layer decreased which indicated lesser thermal degradation at higher taper angles at different profiling parameters. This is also validated by the microhardness where the machined surface hardness of taper angular profiles was found to be greater than the 0° profiles. The artificial neural networks and adaptive neuro-fuzzy interference system were used for the prediction of profiling speed. The adaptive neuro-fuzzy interference system was found better in prediction as the percentage error varies between 0–5 per cent. In conclusion, the profiling speed influences both on the accuracy and surface of machined taper circular profiles. © IMechE 2021.