Improving the efficiency of electro discharge machining by dual voltage excitation

Abstract

An Electrical Discharge Machine (EDM) is a vital machine used in manufacture of tools and dies. Its operation is based on discharge of an electrical current across the tool and the work-piece. Due to limitations of the servo control system, the EDM operates with a low efficiency using a high spark voltage. This paper presents a novel technique based on a dual voltage excitation for an EDM. Although this technique was developed primarily to improve the efficiency, it reduces the cost and size of the electronic controller as well.