The Kinematics of Planetary Erosion as a Basis for Electro-Discharge Polishing and Process Optimisation Strategies

Abstract

ABSTRACT The advantages of EDM polishing are to be found chiefly in the multidirectional processing of complex volumes without the undercuts which easily arise with manual polishing in tool- and mould-making. A considerable number of individual factors affect the polishing process, with decisive effects on the product quality which can be achieved. Particular importance may be ascribed to such pulse parameters as discharge current, pulse duration, pulse interval, open-circuit voltage and polarity, which must be carefully matched if a shining polished surface is to be achieved The attainable surface quality also depends strongly on the size of the surface to be polished, with considerable improvements to be anticipated through the use of the planetary technique. Planetary motion produces more uniform flushing conditions and has a levelling effect due to the mutual relative motion of the electrode surfaces, so that a surface is created which is not only microscopically fine but macroscopically smooth Specif...