Magnetic-Assistance Finishing Processes in Freeform Surfaces

A new finishing process that uses magnetic force with high efficiency to assist discharging dregs from the electrode gap during electrochemical finishing on freeform surfaces is investigated in the current study. The factors affecting electrochemical finishing and the effects of magnetic assistance are primarily discussed. The main experimental parameters are magnetic strength, distance between the two magnets, diameter of the electrode, current density, the on/off period of pulsed current, and rotational speed of the wire electrode. Providing a large magnetic field intensity or using a smaller distance between the two magnets produces a larger magnetic force and discharge efficiency, and results in a better finish. A higher current density with magnetic assistance reduces the finishing time and avoids difficulties in dreg removal. A high rotational speed of the wire electrode produces a better finish. Pulsed direct current can slightly promote the effect of electrochemical finishing, but the current density needs to be higher. Magnetic assistance during the electrochemical finishing process makes a greater contribution in a shorter time making the surface of the workpiece smooth and bright.