Experimental Investigation of PCM on Inconel 600 Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract — Photochemical machining (PCM) is one of the non-conventional machining processes that produce burr free & stress free flat complex metal components. In the present work optimization of process parameters for Photochemical machining of Inconel 600 by using response surface methodology. Mathematical models have been developed to study the effect of input parameters on Undercut from the results of the experiments. The predictive models ’ analyses were supported with the aid of the statistical software package-Design Expert (DE 9). The different input parameters such as etching time, etchant concentration and etchant temperature were set during the photochemical machining. Design of Experiment was done by Face centered composite design method by having 20 experiments to see the effect on etching of Inconel 600. Minimum Undercut was observed at the etching temperature 55.276 0 C, etchant concentration 470.781 gm/lit and 55.276 min etching time. The optimum material undercut was found 0.0029 mm.