Traveling Wire Electrical Discharge Machining as an Alternative Method of Manufacturing M1 Main Battle Tank Rotary Shock Absorber Components

摘要

The project sought reduction in the manufacturing costs of M1 Main Battle Tank rotary shock absorber components (rotor and stator) by using traveling wire electrical discharge machining instead of the traditional machining methods normally used. The project was halted before the contractor had time to analyze cost data for WEDM versus traditional machining. Preliminary analysis demonstrated that WEDM is not a cost-effective method for manufacturing M1 Main Battle Tank rotary shock absorber rotors and stators. The quality of the experimentally manufactured components is acceptable, but the cost is higher because of slow production rate in proportion to the capital cost of the necessary equipment.