Electrical Discharge Machining of Oxide Nanocomposite: Nanomodification of Surface and Subsurface Layers

Abstract

The work is devoted to the research of the changes that occur in the subsurface layer of the workpiece during electrical discharge machining of conductive nanocomposite based on alumina with the use of a brass tool. The nanocomposite of Al2O3 + 30% of TiC was electroerosively machined in a water and hydrocarbon oil. The process of electrical discharge machining is accompanied by oscillations that were registered by diagnostic means. The obtained surface of the samples was researched by the means of scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The observed surface and subsurface changes provide grounding for the conclusions on the nature of processes and reactions that occur between two electrodes and nanomodification of the obtained surfaces that can be an advantage for a series of applications.

Keywords

• electrical erosion
• ceramic nanocomposite
• sublimation
• chemical reactions
• submicrostructure
• removal mechanism