Optimization of Electrostatic Atomization Cutting Using 3D FE Simulation of Electrostatic Field

Compared with minimal quantity lubrication (MQL), electrostatic atomization can control the movement of mist droplets by changing the electrostatic field, thus reducing the drift of mist droplets in air. This paper first proposes the concept of electrostatic atomization cutting, and then develops a 3D FE model of electrostatic field for electrostatic atomization cutting using a commercial software Ansoft Maxwell. By simulation, the influence of nozzle angle, structure, and electrode gap and voltage on electric field intensity is investigated. Based on simulation results, the optimal nozzle angle and structure are obtained for electrostatic atomization cutting. The findings contribute to further development of this technique.