Machinability of Tungsten Carbide Through Electrical Discharge Machining: State of Art and Future Perspectives
摘要
The ability to machine complex components in hard and difficult-to-machine materials with great geometrical accuracy has made electrical discharge machining (EDM) the most prevalent unconventional machining method. Recently, EDM has proven beneficial in machining complex 3D objects, employing composites made of tungsten carbide, which is difficult to cut, and in manufacturing dies, cavities, and intricate moulds. The prime objective of this review is to provide the most recent developments in electrical discharge machining of tungsten carbide and its composites. A quick introduction to the EDM and micro-EDM processes sets the stage for the review. This research categorizes conventional electrical discharge machining and the recent hybrid methods used with tungsten carbide into two basic categories. This review also highlights the difficulties and challenges of machining tungsten carbide using micro-EDM and the significance of combined and hybrid machining methods. The conclusion summarizes the recommendations for further studies based on the review.