An experimental investigation of micro electrical discharge machining on ceramic

Abstract

The demand for mass production of smaller and lighter machine components has been increasing with the advances in technology. To meet this increasing demand, development of manufacturing techniques for micro molds is needed. Micro molds are commonly used to produce the light guided panel (LGP) of liquid crystal display (LCD). The LGP consists of a multitude of micro-scattering patterns such as successive V-grooves or pyramid patterns to scatter and reflect incident light upwards. The patterns have been manufactured by injection molding using a stamper. However, the sequential processes involved in producing the stamper is time consuming and costly. Electrical Discharge Machining is a non-conventional form of machining method which is mainly used in the machining of difficult-to-machine materials such as high strength temperature resistant alloys. Thus, EDM is a potential and attractive technology for the machining of ceramics, provided that they have a sufficiently high electrical conductivity. This project focuses on the formation of V grooves on ceramic material by micro electrical discharge machining process.