Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is a non conventional machining process extensively used in the machining of hard to machine materials and in die manufacturing industry. The major cost component in EDM is the cost of the electrode. The conventionally used electrode material like Copper and Graphite has very low wear resistance and wear out fast. There is continual process of finding electrode materials which have optimum value of electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity and wear resistance. Different composites of various combinations of material have been used in search of alternative tool material. This paper presents a review of different materials used for the manufacturing of composite electrodes for EDM and their fabrication techniques. It has been observed that among the different electrode fabrication techniques available, powder metallurgy has shown very good results.

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Electrical Discharge Machining Material Removal Rate Powder Metallurgy Rapid Prototyping Tool Wear Rate