Otimização e avaliação dos parâmetros de influência do processo AJEDM

Abstract

Die-sinking electrical discharge machining is characterized by low efficiency when compared to traditional methods of machining. There is significant impreement an the Material Removal Rate (MRR) when abrasive particles are added to the process AJEDM (Abrasive Jet Electrical Discharge Machining). This study aims to evaluate the influence of some parameters in the AJEDM process, namely: water pressure, type and abrasive particle size and the electrode material. A pump was adapted to the EDM equipment allowing to apply pressures up to 240 bar. Al2O3 and SiC in different particle sizes were used as abrasives and B4C with size of 320 mesh. Besides copper and graphite, other materials were used to the manufacture of electrodes. It was observed that the increase in water pressure causes an increment of MRR. On the other hand, there is a more pronounced wear of the electrodes, but the type of abrasive does not effect wear. However, particle size increase causes an increase in MRR. Due to high electrical conductivity of copper and high melting point of graphite, they were the best materials for electrodes. With the results obtained, the conclusion is that the AJEDM process may be applied in situations where some electrode wear can be tolerated.