DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The preferred embodiments are employed with an
electrolytic polishing apparatus 10 such as is depicted in
FIG. 1. The apparatus includes a container vessel, preferably constructed of titanium, in which the electrolytic
solution 60 and the workpiece to be polished are dis
posed. Alternatively, a plastic tank with titanium cathodes may be employed as vessel 20. A stainless steel
tank may be employed, although the stainless steel may
reduce the life and performance of the electrolytic solution.
The workpiece 55 is suspended in the electrolytic
solution 60 by rack 45, preferably constructed of titanium, and wiring 50. Wiring 50 is coupled to the anode
of DC power supply 30, through a power controller
device 35. The cathode of the power source 30 is connected to the cathode of vessel 20 in such a manner as to
promote a uniform current density between the vessel
cathode and the workpiece 55 which serves as the
anode of the electrolytic process. The power supply
should preferably be capable of producing a potential
difference of at least 12 volts at a current rating equal to
5 to 10 amperes per workpiece to be processed. A solid '
state, constant current DC power supply is preferred
for ease of control of the process.
Means are provided for maintaining the temperature
of the solution 60 at a desired temperature in the vessel
20, e.g., heating and cooling coils adjacent the inner
walls of the vessel 20. Means (not shown) for mechanically agitating the electrolyte solution in vessel 20, such as a stirring implement, are also provided. The agitation
of the solution provided is preferably rapid and uniform.
In some applications, ultrasonic agitation has been
found advantageous.