machining is classified as
unconventional machining. It is based on an anodic
dissolution during electrolysis [1]. It relies on the work of
Faraday who has found if two metal electrodes are submerged
in an electrolyte and connected to a DC source, metal particles
are depleted from the anode and then plated on the cathode. If
the electrolyte flows at sufficient rate, it will prevent the metal
particles from deposition on the cathode and flushes them
away from the machining area.
Since the anode workpiece dissolves electrochemically, its
rate of dissolution or machining depends only upon its atomic
weight, its valence, the current density, and the time of
machining, as stated by Faraday’s laws of electrolysis [2]. The
rate is not affected by the hardness or other mechanical
properties of the materials.
The metal removal is done by electrolytic action. The shape
of the workpiece is mainly determined by the shape of the tool
and by the tool movement towards the workpiece.