Characterisation of Micro Channels Machined with ECDM for Fluidic Applications

Abstract

Electro Chemical Discharge Machining (ECDM) process is an innovative micro machining process to machine electrically conducting and non-conductive materials for micro level application. In this paper an attempt has been made to machine micro channels with ECDM process for micro fluidic application. Micro channels are machined for three different speeds for borosilicate glass with tungsten copper alloy tool of 300 micron diameter with optimized process parameters. Flow rate across micro channels are measured and are found to be reliable for micro fluidic application. Micro channels are found to have good surface finish when machined with optimal conditions. Micro ECDM process is found to be cheaper and faster process compared to existing machining operations in non-conducting materials.