Improvement in performance criteria of varactor micropattern by pulsed maskless electrochemical micromachining

Abstract

With the progression of many types of micropattern generation using unconventional micromachining techniques has extensive applications in many advanced fields. In this paper, introducing a defined shape of varactor type micropattern generation on stainless steel samples using pulsed maskless electrochemical micromachining (EMM) is more imperative for the application of radio frequency (RF) and microwave communication systems. In this paper, maskless pulsed EMM system is developed for carrying out the investigation during generation of varactor micropatterns. One single masked tool can produce numerous high quality micropatterned workpieces. Pulse current is used to enhance the regularity of machining. Outcomes of EMM process variables i.e., duty ratio and pulsed frequency on machining criteria i.e., material removal rate (MRR), overcut, depth, surface finish and taper kerf angle are investigated during fabrication of varactor micropattern. From the experimental results, the best parametric combination such as 20 kHz frequency and 30% duty ratio can generate the regular varactor micropattern.