Novel Electrolytes for the Electrochemical Machining of Air-Breathing Propulsion Materials

摘要

This investigation was directed towards developing novel ElectroChemical Machining (ECM) technology for the processing of titanium alloys for application in air breathing propulsion systems by Naval Aircraft. The feature of this approach relies upon the application of unique heterogeneous electrolytes consisting of dispersions of electronically conducting particles within an ionically conducting aqueous phase. This resulted in effectively extending the cathode into close proximity to the anode workpiece. The consequence of this was: (1) a significant lowering in the operating voltage, (2) a dramatic reduction in stray pitting, and (3) enhancing dimensional control of the titanium alloy being subjected to ECM. A computer controlled ECM lathe incorporating a stepper motor based translational stage has been designed and fabricated. Using this experimental assembly holes were successfully drilled into all titanium alloys evaluated in this program.