Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)

Book excerpt: Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) is one of the earliest and most widely used non-conventional machining processes. In recent years, the use of EDM has increased significantly in industries, mainly due to the extensive use of hard and difficult-to-cut materials, i.e. hardened steels, carbides, titanium alloys, nickel super alloys and so on. The EDM process is being used extensively for many important applications in die and mold, aerospace, automotive, micro-electronic and biomedical industries. As a result, extensive research has been carried out on various aspects of EDM. Taking those facts into consideration, this book aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the various types, technologies and applications of EDM. The book starts with chapters on the two major types of EDM: die-sinking EDM and wire-EDM. Subsequently, several EDM-based hybrid machining processes, such as: ultrasonically aided EDM, powder-mixed EDM, and simultanous micro-EDM/ECM have been discussed in detail. This book includes chapters on the detail of EDM surface and modeling and simulation of the EDM process. This book also contains chapters on the novel and innovative applications of EDM as well as machining of newer materials, such as: shape memory alloy, reaction-bonded silicon carbide, metal metrix composites, silicon based semiconductors, and non-conducting polymers. It is a useful resource for students and researchers who are planning to start their research on the area of EDM and related processes. It can also serve as a reference for students, academics, researchers, engineers, and working professionals in non-traditional manufacturing processes related industries.