Influence of electrolyte concentration on copying accuracy of precision-ECM

A. K. M. De Silva*, H. S. J. Altena, J. A. McGeough

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

90 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

A precision ECM process, dimensional accuracy ± 2 μm, surface finish 0.01 μm Ra, has been developed using narrow inter-electrode gaps (< 50 μm) for mass production of small (100 mm2) component parts. The electrolyte properties, especially the concentration, play a significant role in controlling the dimensional accuracy of precision-ECM. The relationships between the electrolyte concentration and various process parameters are derived empirically and are utilised in a graphical model to predict the localisation effects of electrochemical dissolution. By controlling the localisation effects significant improvements are made to the dimensional accuracy obtained. Practical examples are used to validate the model developed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)165-168
Number of pages4
JournalCIRP Annals - Manufacturing Technology
Volume52
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2003

Keywords

  • ECM accuracy
  • Electrolyte concentration
  • Localised dissolution

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Influence of electrolyte concentration on copying accuracy of precision-ECM'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this