Electric-Discharge Machining of Polymer Composites

Abstract

The electric-discharge machining (EDM) of VKU-29 composite is experimentally studied. The influence of the machining conditions on the lateral electrode gap (the difference between the width of the slot in the polymer composite produced by EDM and the width of the tool electrode) is determined. The electrode gap observed in the machining of VKU-29 composite is analogous to that observed in the machining of steel workpieces. It depends on the pulse energy. Comparison of graphite, copper, and composite tool electrodes shows that the best surface quality is obtained in the latter case. In EDM by a composite electrode, no traces of damage or fluffing are seen on the machined surface.