PECM for Nickel- and Titanium-Based Alloys
Precision Electro-Chemical Machining (PCEM) is a process for the machining of high-alloyed materials, such as nickel- and titanium-based alloys. The disadvantages of traditional metal cutting – tool wear, mechanical stresses, micro-fissuring caused by heat, oxidization layering, and the need for subsequent deburring operations – are eliminated because this process is non-contact, without heat input. All electro-chemical machining processes are characterized by stress-free material removal, smooth transition points, and surfaces without ridge formations.
The advantages that the PECM process provides for different branches of industry are best shown with the example of a turbocharger for the automotive industry. The electro-chemical process is one that can be used effectively in the machining of many high-alloy components, especially those in the high-temperature sector of the turbocharger, offering a much shorter and very efficient process chain. The typical clean-up operations necessary when traditional machining processes are used, such as deburring after milling, are no longer necessary. PECM machining operations are burr-free and there is hardly any tool wear. Downtimes are minimal, when compared to milling (which requires regular tool changes). The process as a whole is sturdier and less prone to errors. And another important factor that our example of the turbocharger shows: the superb surface finish of the PECM process, where Rz-values of 0.3 micron can be achieved.
EMAG L.L.C.
38800 Grand River Avenue
Farmington Hills, MI 48335
Tel: (248) 875-0313
Fax: (248) 477-7784
www.emag.com