Micro-machining with ECDM: A state of art approach

Abstract

Electro-chemical discharge machining (ECDM) is a proven and novel technology for machining electrically non-conductive materials such as glass, quartz etc with effective material removal rate (MRR). These materials are very difficult to machine with traditional machining methods owing to their brittle nature. Material removal mechanism in ECDM is a combination of both removal mechanism of both electro-chemical machining (ECM) and electro-discharge machining (EDM) simultaneously i.e. material removal occurs due to thermal erosion and chemical dissolution. This review article discusses the fundamental physical principle of ECDM process along
with the reporting of the critical research findings on machining performance. The influence of various control parameters such as applied voltage, electrolyte concentration, tool shape, tool rotation and vibration on material removal rate, surface roughness and tool wear was discussed comprehensively. On the basis of literature study, it was observed that control parameters significantly influence the ECDM machining performance. The ECDM process can successfully machine electrically non-conductive materials with ease and highlights crucial reporting’s of parameters which add to the existing literature.