Abrasive Electrodischarge Grinding (AEDG), or rotary electrodischarge machining (EDM) with a metal bonded diamond wheel, will be studied in this project. AEDG combines the benefits of electric erosion, which is independent of material hardness, and diamond grinding, which provides precision and better surface integrity. The preliminary results indicate that AEDG offers higher productivity with better surface quality than EDG. However, the existing AEDG system lacks the capacity to: (1) easily and economically generate complex surface shapes; (2) avoid arcing and unstable machining; (3) machine materials of low electrical conductivity; and (4) select optimal performance parameters and control the process. The project will develop an accurate on-line gap monitoring and control system, an enhanced power generator, a 2-axis NC wheel dressing unit for complex surface generation, and machine operation software with Internet capabilities. An experimental testing of the completed AEDG system will be conducted for high productivity, ease of operation, economy, capability, accuracy, and environmental compatibility.

The AEDG system, if successfully developed, is expected to make a major leap forward in the scientific and technological levels of EDG and EDM tools. Such an advance will likely provide much needed assistance to the United States producers and users of EDM and EDG technologies for the machining of advanced materials such as superalloys, engineering ceramics, and metal matrix composites.

Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1999-09-01
Budget End
2003-08-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1999
Total Cost
$198,589
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Lincoln
State
NE
Country
United States
Zip Code
68588