Machining Characteristics of IN718 by EDM with Cooled Electrode and Vibration of the Workpiece

Abstract

Inconel718 has been widely used in various fields for its good performance, but it is difficult to machine with traditional machining methods. Electrical discharge machining is an alternative competitive process to machine Nickel-based alloys by electrical erosion. In order to improve reduce the electrode loss and improve the machining efficiency, the horizontal ultrasonic vibration of the workpiece and the cryogenic cooling of the tool electrode were applied into the EDM process. Material removal efficiency, surface roughness, surface topography, and microhardness have been characterized.