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The objective of this study is to develop the combined technology of EDM with ER as work fluid .The surface of workpiece after machining by EDM has a re-casted layer, many micro-craters and cracks. The polishing is usual method to solve this problem, which is performed after EDM and add extra cost. In the study, we proposed a novel method of EDM by using ER (Electrorheological) fluid. In ER fluid the starch particle will gather and become the fibrous chains due to polarization when the electrical field achieves several kV/mm between the electrode and work-piece. And then the fibrous chains become a polishing blush with abrasives such like Al2O3. It is possible to develop the new EDM process to satisfy the fine machined surface in the one process. The experimental results show the ER fluid can work for EDM but decrease D.F. with increasing the ER concentration. We have the good performance Ra 0.06μm with ER -Al2O3(10-10wt%) in the combined process with electrical discharge machining and polishing.
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