Process Simulation of Electrochemical Machining of Convexity Structure on Revolving Workpiece

Abstract

A special electrochemical machining (ECM) process using a revolving cathode tool with hollow windows is presented. Unlike conventional sinking ECM, this presented ECM process fabricates the convexity structures on a revolving part by the relative rotation of anode workpiece and cathode tool. In this paper, a mathematical model is established to describe the evolution of the machining process, the finite element simulations of the new forming fashion are focused for the workpiece’s revolving surface and the convexity’s side profile. The simulation results show that both the cathode feed rate and the applied voltage have significant influence on the equilibrium inter-electrode gap and the material removal rate. The side profile of the convexity is related to radius of the cathode tool. It is expected that the equilibrium gap and steady removal rate could be achieved by optimizing the cathode feed rate and the voltage, the required side profile taper of the convexity could be obtained by selecting the proper tool radius.