A study on the mirror surface machining by using a micro-energy EDM and the electrophoretic deposition polishing

Biing Hwa Yan, Kun Ling Wu, Fuang Yuan Huang, Chun Chieh Hsu

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

In order to achieve a mirror-like workpiece surface by EDM, a micro-energy EDM or a manual lapping is normally used. However, both methods are time consuming and economically unattractive. To have better performance, a sinking EDM machine was first used in this research on SKD 61 for a micro-energy discharge process followed by the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) process to coat Al2O3 particles uniformly on a rotation electrode. The precision polishing process was then applied on the discharged workpiece with suitable parameters including the voltage, electrode rotating speed, pH value of electrolyte, and abrasive concentration. After the EDM process, the surface roughness and the recast layer thickness of a workpiece could also be reduced. The experimental data showed that when 0.3 μm of Al 2O3 particles was used for the EPD polishing process, the initial roughness of a discharge surface could be improved from 0.52 μm Ra (6.50 μm Rt) to a mirror-like surface of 0.068 μm Ra (0.742 μm Rt). Also, the total working time could be reduced significantly to within the range of 5 to 10 min.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)96-103
Number of pages8
JournalInternational Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology
Volume34
Issue number1-2
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2007

Keywords

  • Electrical discharge machining
  • Electrophoretic deposition
  • Polishing

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