Influence of Different Tool Electrode Materials on Electrochemical Discharge Machining Performances

Abstract

Electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) is an emerging method for developing micro-channels in conductive or non-conductive materials. In order to machine the materials, it uses a combination of chemical and thermal energy. The tool electrode’s arrangement is crucial for channeling these energies from the tool electrode to the work material. As a consequence, tool electrode optimization and analysis are crucial for efficiently utilizing energies during ECDM and ensuring machining accuracy. The main motive of this study is to experimentally investigate the influence of different electrode materials, namely titanium alloy (TC4), stainless steel (SS304), brass, and copper–tungsten (CuW) alloys (W70Cu30, W80Cu20, W90Cu10), on electrodes’ electrical properties, and to select an appropriate electrode in the ECDM process. The material removal rate (MRR), electrode wear ratio (EWR), overcut (OC), and surface defects are the measurements considered. The electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity of electrodes have been identified as analytical issues for optimal machining efficiency. Moreover, electrical conductivity has been shown to influence the MRR, whereas thermal conductivity has a greater impact on the EWR, as characterized by TC4, SS304, brass, and W80Cu20 electrodes. After that, comparison experiments with three CuW electrodes (W70Cu30, W80Cu20, and W90Cu10) are carried out, with the W70Cu30 electrode appearing to be the best in terms of the ECDM process. After reviewing the research outcomes, it was determined that the W70Cu30 electrode fits best in the ECDM process, with a 70 μg/s MRR, 8.1% EWR, and 0.05 mm OC. Therefore, the W70Cu30 electrode is discovered to have the best operational efficiency and productivity with performance measures in ECDM out of the six electrodes.