This article discusses the electrochemical machining (ECM), a noncontact technology that spares both tool and part from machining wear, and the ECM finishes some parts in half the time of conventional mechanical machining techniques. The Sermatech Manufacturing Group, a leading user of ECM, is researching new applications for the technology, which the company uses principally on turbine components and various aircraft parts. In the ECM process, the DC power source charges the workpiece positively and charges the tool negatively. As the machine slowly brings the tool and workpiece close together, perhaps to within 0.010 of an inch, the power and electrolyte flow are turned ON. Everite engineers developed a thinner cutting wheel version of its ECG machines to cut fine stainless steel tubing for medical devices without burrs. Other tiny medical devices made by Everite machines include biopsy needles, nickel titanium threading catheters, and cobalt–chrome alloy joint implants.
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November 2001
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Making the Cut
An Electrochemical Process that Shapes Complex Turbine Parts is Shopping for More Jobs to Take on.
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Mechanical Engineering. Nov 2001, 123(11): 64-67 (4 pages)
Published Online: November 1, 2001
Citation
Valenti, M. (November 1, 2001). "Making the Cut." ASME. Mechanical Engineering. November 2001; 123(11): 64–67. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2001-NOV-4
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