Electrochemical Milling Using a Parallel Mechanism for High-speed Translation of Tool Electrodes

Abstract

Electrochemical milling using a delta-type parallel mechanism is proposed to achieve high-speed translation of the tool electrode, which is known to improve the surface finish. Experimental results of machining a groove show that the surface roughness decreases with increasing translation speed of the tool electrode. Moreover, it is found that the high-speed translation of the tool electrode is effective at preventing electrical discharge damage of both the tool electrode and the workpiece. Large areas can be machined at high translation speeds with improved surface finish, and the machined profile accurately matches the desired profile. The experimental results indicate that there is an optimum pick feed that ensures both a better surface flatness and finish.