On precision improvement by ultrasonics-aided electrodischarge machining.

The paper deals with increasing the precision by electrodischarge machining, aided by ultrasonic longitudinal vibration of the electrode tool. Increasing the dimensional precision of machined surfaces is strongly related to the decrease of volumetric relative wear. This essential parameter of electrodischarge machining depends on several input parameters, which are described in detail. Several optimization conditions, concerning the technological input parameters, are elaborated, aiming at the maximization of the dimensional precision through volumetric relative wear. These conditions address overall parameters as acoustic pressure, discharge energy level and power supply of the ultrasonic chain. Several technological solutions are elaborated like the synchronization of pulses with tool oscillation semiperiods, decreasing the supply power of the acoustic chain and working with frontal flat surfaces of electrodes by generating complex surfaces through 3D technological movements provided by CNC machines. All these can lead to up to 50% decrease of volumetric relative wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]