Precision and micro ECM with localized anodic dissolution

Electrochemical Machining (ECM) is based on the anodic dissolution of metallic work pieces under the influence of an electric current and an electrolyte. To apply the principle of anodic dissolution for micro and precision machining a high localization of the electric current density is necessary. In this study two selected strategies are presented to realize these high localised anodic dissolution process. The first strategy is based on a reduction of the gap between electrode and work piece down to approximately 10 ìm. In such small workings gaps an electrolyte flow is nearly not possible. This challenge can be solved by help of a combination of pulsed electric current and a vibrating electrode, which is known as PECM. The second strategy is Electrochemical Machining with closed electrolytic free jet, called Jet-ECM. In Jet-ECM the electric current is directly localized by the position of the electrolyte jet itself. In this paper the limits and possibilities of both strategies from the perspective of tool manufacturing are summarized and compared.