Flow Controlled Chemical Machining

Abstract

Abstract:This paper presents a new method of manufacturing 3D components by using Flow-Controlled Chemical Machining (FCCM). FCCM can be used for fabrication of 3D components using flow control set-up (or pattern) and suitable etchant. In this investigation, pattern used is perforated and having wettability which is made up of the cotton material. The pattern material has etchant resistant properties. During machining, the pattern is placed on a workpiece and etchant is passed over the pattern. Due to wettability of pattern, a thin layer of etchant is formed below the pattern and etching of work piece is done in the direction of pattern in a stepwise. This investigation is useful in fabrication of various 3D free-form surface components. Since, the chemical etching processes have a very low material removal rate; by optimizing machining parameters such as flow rate of etchant, etchant concentration, temperature etc.; machining rate can be improved.