Abstract

CHAIDES, Oscar; AHUETT-GARZA, Horacio  and  YI, Allen Y.. Implementation of a microchannel manufacturing system based on micro-Electro Discharge Machining. Ingenier. mecáni. tecnolog. desarroll [online]. 2014, vol.4, n.6, pp.229-238. ISSN 1665-7381.

This document presents a micromanufacturing system by micro electro discharge machining (µEDM). The system implements a resistor capacitor oscillator (RC oscillator) as a power source for the material removal process. The architecture of the machine allows an operation that combines features of the conventional plunge electrical discharge machining process with a lateral motion of the oscillating electrode to produce micro channels. High precision linear stages actuated by micro stepping motors were used for tool displacement. A mechanical electrode holder, capable of oscillation, was developed to improve both flushing of sediments and the overall material removal rate. Tool motion was controlled using an open source machine control, LinuxCNC. The gap control methodology for process continuity was implemented using a gap monitor based on the voltage difference between the electrode and the working piece. The system was used to manufacture microchannels of 290 µm width, 50 µm depth and several millimeters long in A36 steel (96.9 HRB) using a brass electrode with a 254 µm diameter. The control system was used in two different machine configurations, thus proving the portability of the proposed design.

Keywords : Micromachining; oscillating tool holder; Linux; electric discharge machining.