Investigation on the Optimum Carbide Content and Machining Condition for Wire EDM of Zirconia Ceramics

Abstract

Wire EDM has been performed on Conductive zirconias containing 23 to 45 vol% NbC or Tic, and thus, the optimum carbide content was clarified. The machining rate and surface roughness for various pulse duration and duty factors were evaluated, and consequently, the optimum machining conditions for the wire EDM were discussed. It is obvious that the maximum machining rate can be obtained with about 28-30 vol% Nbc or TIC content, and that there exists the optimum duty factor from a standpoint of machining rate. Also, the effect of second cut on the machining rate and surface roughness was investigated.