Question

While machining copper alloys by electro chemical machining the electrolyte used is?

Answer 1

Electrochemical machining (ECM) is a method of removing metal by an electrochemical process. It is normally used for mass production and is used for working extremely hard materials or materials that are difficult to machine using conventional methods. Its use is limited to electrically conductivematerials. ECM can cut small or odd-shaped angles, intricate contours or cavities in hard and exotic metals, such as titanium aluminides, Inconel, Waspaloy, and high nickel, cobalt, and rheniumalloys. Both external and internal geometries can be machined.

ECM is often characterized as "reverse electroplating", in that it removes material instead of adding it. It is similar in concept to electrical discharge machining(EDM) in that a high current is passed between an electrode and the part, through an electrolyticmaterial removal process having a negatively charged electrode (cathode), a conductive fluid (electrolyte), and a conductive workpiece (anode); however, in ECM there is no tool wear. The ECM cutting tool is guided along the desired path close to the work but without touching the piece. Unlike EDM, however, no sparks are created. High metal removal rates are possible with ECM, with no thermal or mechanical stresses being transferred to the part, and mirror surface finishes can be achieved.