MATERIAL REMOVAL RATE IN ELECTROCHEMICAL DISCHARGE MACHINING OF SMALL DIAMETER HOLES

Abstract

Electrochemical discharge machining method is based on the material removal from workpiece as a consequence of simultaneous development of electrical discharges between the electrodes and of the electrochemical reactions between the work liquid and workpiece material. One application of the electrochemical discharge machining is drilling of small diameter holes in workpieces made of electroconductive materials. Distinct workpiece materials have different behaviour, if the machining speed is considered. A full factorial experiment was designed and applied in order to highlight the influence exerted by tool electrode diameter, voltage applied to electrodes, total capacitance of the electrical circuit and density of work liquid on the penetration speed. Power type mathematical empirical relations were determined. Analysing the empirical mathematical models, one concluded that the order of influence of input process factors is the following: sodium silicate electrolyte density, applied voltage, tool diameter and circuit capacitance.