Tool degradation in EDM processes: experimental study of surface contamination in electrodes used in the shipbuilding industry

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Tool degradation in EDM processes: experimental study of surface contamination in electrodes used in the shipbuilding industry

Mascaraque-Ramírez, Carlos / Franco, Patricio

The Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) process is becoming increasingly used in the shipbuilding industry due to its suitability to produce complex geometries and the machining of materials with high mechanical properties. Although, it is necessary to deepen in its study to be able to adapt it to the own characteristics of the shipbuilding sector, mainly to the high volumes of material to eliminate that causes a strong degradation in the tools. This research focuses on the experimental study of surface contamination caused on the active surface of cutting tools in EDM processes due to material adhesion of machined parts during the process, being of interest in the manufacture of parts and components that require high manufacturing times. This work presents a series of findings that allow optimising the starting parameters of the process to increase the useful life of the tool and improve the surface finish of the manufactured parts.