Metal processing is currently classified by type and method. Moreover, most types are based on the mechanical method (turning, boring, milling, drilling, grinding, polishing, etc.). Their main disadvantage is a large amount of formed metal shavings, waste, sawdust. There is also a more economical method of metal processing - stamping.
Be that as it may, in recent years, the possibilities of metalworking have expanded significantly. In confirmation of this, electrochemical (electroerosive and ultrasonic) and electrophysical processing methods appeared, which will be discussed in more detail below.
Wire EDM
It's no secret that such an atmospheric electrical discharge as lightning is capable of producing a colossal destructive effect. However, not everyone knows that small electric discharges are successfully used in industry, helping to create the most complex parts from metal blanks.
In the process of electrical discharge machining, a blank and a tool made of a heat-conducting or refractory material are connected to a power source. To ensure short-term discharges of current, the electrical voltage is systematically turned off. Alternatively, the tool moves at high speed relative to the workpiece.
Cooling of the metal being smelted is carried out by immersing the ingot in a medium that does not conduct electric current - kerosene, machine oil, etc.
The electroerosive method is used in cases where metal processing on ordinary metal-cutting machines is impossible for any reason.
Ultrasonic treatment
Not so long ago, hardly anyone could have assumed that with the help of sound one could measure the depth of the sea, tan leather, drill glass and even weld metal. Sound has the form of elastic waves that propagate in the form of alternating compressions and rarefaction of particles of air, water and other elements of the environment.
The number of compressions and decompressions determines the frequency of the sound. Full oscillation is formed by compression and rarefaction following it.
An ultrasonic machine makes it possible to make holes in brittle materials, the processing of which causes certain difficulties. Moreover, the holes can be of any shape. In this regard, such equipment is used to manufacture hard alloy die dies, ferrite cells of computers, etc.
Electrochemical processing
Electrolysis has become widespread in industry, since it is used to carry out the following processes:
- creating metal casts;
- application to metal
