Study of electrochemical jet machining process

Jet Electrochemical Machining (ECJM) employs a jet of electrolyte for anodic dissolution of workpiece material. ECJM is extensively used for drilling small cooling holes in aircraft turbine blades and for producing maskless patterns for microelectronics parts. ECJM process drills small diameter holes and complex shape holes without the use of a profile electrode. One of the most significant problems facing ECJM user industries is the precise control of the process. A theoretical analysis of the process and a corresponding model are required for the development of an appropriate control system. This paper presents a mathematical model for determining the relationship between the machining rate and working conditions (electrolyte jet flow velocity, jet length, electrolyte properties, and voltage) of ECJM. This model describes a distribution of electric field and the effect of change of conductivity of electrolyte (caused by heating) on the process performance. A maximum dissolution rate is determined from the allowable increase of electrolyte temperature. Experimental verification of theoretical results is also presented.