Surface performance of workpieces processed by electrical discharge machining in gas

The surface performance of workpieces processed by electrical discharge machining in gas (dry EDM) was studied in this paper. Firstly, the composition, micro hardness and recast layer of electrical discharge machined (EDMed) surface of 45 carbon steels in air were investigated through different test analysis methods. The results show that the workpiece surface EDMed in air contains a certain quantity of oxide, and oxidation occurs on the workpiece surface. Compared with the surface of workpieces processed in kerosene, fewer cracks exist on the dry EDMed workpiece surface, and the surface recast layer is thinner than that obtained by conventional EDM. The micro hardness of workpieces machined by dry EDM method is lower than that machined in kerosene, and higher than that of the matrix. In addition, experiments were conducted on the surface wear resistance of workpieces processed in air and kerosene using copper electrode and titanium alloy electrode.The results indicate that the surface wear resistance of workpieces processed in air can be improved, and it is related with tool material and dielectric.