On the controlling metal removal thickness in ECM process

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Department of Production Engineering and Machine Design, Faculty of Engineering, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom - Egypt.

Abstract

Electrochemical machining [ECM), offers the unique advantage of a better
accuracy and high surface integrity of hard machined components. A new
technique has been developed to utilize a simultaneous moving and rotating
electrode to remove a specific amount of material, from a pre-machined holes
and rods of hardened steel specimens. One of the electrodes was provided with
two simultaneous movements; traverse speed and rotational speed. The
electrolyte was pumped into the gap between tool and workpiece, through a
matrix of fine holes distributed along one of the electrode surfaces. A
mathematical model has been proposed for accurately estimating the thickness
the removed workpiece layer under different working conditions.
Experimental results revealed that this technique could lead to the removal of a
surface layer thickness up to 200 microns, which consequently, classified this
method as a super finishing process. Finally, the results of the experiments and
the simulation are compared to each other. The obtained results are an
endeavor to enhance the controllability of the ECM process.