Micro-Hole Machined by Electrochemical Discharge Machining (ECDM) with High Speed Rotating Cathode

Abstract

Electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM), based on electrochemical machining (ECM) and electrodischarge machining (EDM), is an unconventional micro-machining technology. In this paper, with the use of water, the process of micro hole on ANSI 304 stainless steel machined by micro-ECDM with high speed rotating cathode is studied. The effects of machining conditions such as the cathode rotating speed and cathode diameter on the surface quality and accuracy of the shape are investigated. The results indicate that a relatively higher electrode rotating speed can improve the machining accuracy of the micro-holes and reduce the electrodes wear.