Investigation on the Variability of Existing Models for Simulation of Local Temperature Field during a Single Discharge for Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)

In electrical discharge machining (EDM) material removal and rim zone modifications are resulted by generated heat during numerous discharges. By estimating the temperature field applied on the workpiece as material loading, removal rate and induced modifications in the rim zone can be predicted. Different scientists tried to simulate the induced temperature field on the workpiece during a single or multiple discharges. However, due to the complex removal mechanism in EDM, these models are mostly incomplete and contain considerable uncertainties. In this study, the strengths and weaknesses of typical heat transfer models for a single discharge are discussed. For this propose a finite element model is constructed and influences of different modeling parameters on the obtained results have been analyzed. Moreover, potentials of reverse microstructure simulation as an assistant for modification of heat source models discussed.