Electrochemical Grinding / Definition, parts, working, advantages, disadvantages of Electrochemical Grinding
Introduction:
In this electrochemical grinding process, the metal is removed by both electrochemical and grinding processes.
In the grinding process, only 10% of the metal is removed while 90% of the metal is removed by an electrochemical process.
See in figure electrochemical grinding machine and their working procedure mentioned below in detail.
Working Procedure of Electrochemical Grinding :
- The grinding wheel is attached to the spindle which is made of diamond particles.
- The spindle is used to rotate the grinding wheel. The grinding wheel rotates at a speed of 900 to 1800 rpm/min.
- The workpiece is connected to the positive terminal and the tool is connected to the negative terminal.
- A gap of 2.5 mm is maintained during the process. The electrolyte flows between this gap.
- Sodium chloride and sodium nitrate are used as electrolytes.
- The electrolyte also acts as a coolant. It is filtered and circulated again.
- When power is supplied, ions are removed from the workpiece.
- The positive ions move towards the grinding wheel and negative charges are carried away by electrolytes.
- Some amount of metal is removed by the grinding process.
Application of Electrochemical Grinding :
- Used to machine hard and brittle materials.
- Suitable for grinding tungsten carbide tools.
- Used to machine thin components.
Advantages of Electrochemical Grinding :
- Fast process and high metal removal rate.
- Very hard materials are removed.
Disadvantages of Electrochemical Grinding :
- Only suitable for conducting material.
- Requires high electrical power.
- High investment.
- Not suitable for complex shapes.
- Electrolytes can cause corrosion.
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