Investigation the effect of electrode materials on arc discharge machining of 40% SiCp/Al composites

Abstract

In order to explore the influence of electrode materials on arc discharge machining, four kinds of materials (copper, 45 steel, W70Cu30 and graphite) were used as electrodes, the simulations mathematical model and geometric model of arc discharge temperature field for different electrode materials were established respectively. Else, the simulation of arc discharge temperature field was conducted. The simulation results show that the depths of graphite, W70Cu30, 45 steel and copper electrode are from shallow to deep in turn. Under the conditions of discharge voltage 25V, feed speed 30mm/min and working medium water-based working fluid, comparative experiments of grooves with depth of 3mm and length of 60mm were carried out. The test results show that compared with other materials, the removal rate of 40%SiCp/Al composites processed by graphite electrode is up to 765.55mm3/min, the relative tool wear rate is reduced to 4.61%. The results show that graphite electrode has high processing efficiency and good processing quality.