Performance characteristic prediction of WEDM process using response surface methodology and artificial neural network

In the present study, empirical relations have been reported for estimation of performance characteristics when EN-31 steel is machined by wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) process using response surface methodology (RSM). The experimental plan was based on the face centred central composite design (FCCCD). In order to study the effects of the WEDM parameters on performance characteristics, second order polynomial models are developed. Cutting parameters such as pulse-on-time, pulse-off-time, wire tension, spark gap set voltage and servo feed are considered as inputs to the model variables whereas cutting rate, surface roughness and dimensional deviation as outputs. Further, analysis of variance (ANOVA) is used to analyse the influence of process parameters and their interaction on responses. Artificial neural network (ANN) model based on Levenberg-Marquardt (L-M) algorithm is employed to predict the performance characteristics.