Nonconventional Machining Based on Electrical Charged Particles Motion in Liquid

Nonconventional machining methods are based on the transfer of the energy to the work zone in ways distinct from those applied in the case of the so-called classical machining methods. A group of nonconventional machining methods achieve material removal from workpiece by using the motion of the electrical charged particles in a liquid. Practically, some machining techniques included in the larger groups of electrical discharge machining and in electrochemical machining are based on the motion of electrical charged particles in fluid. The problem addressed in this paper is to identify the zones where differences between the two groups of machining methods appear. A theoretical analysis was developed in order to identify the common aspects and respectively the differences between the electrical discharge machining and electrochemical machining, if the machining liquid is considered. Some experimental tests were developed to highlight aspects specific to the above mentioned machining techniques. The research facilitated obtaining a more complete image of some common and distinct characteristics of electrical discharge machining and electrochemical machining. The significance of the electroconductive or insulating properties of the work liquid was highlighted.