Micro-electrical Discharge Machining of Nitinol Alloy Using Coated Electrode and Multi-Energy Field

Nitinol alloys are widely utilized across various fields owing to their exceptional elasticity and shape memory characteristics. Their low thermal conductivity, high strength, and high toughness pose significant challenges to conventional machining technologies. To address these challenges, several non-conventional machining processes such as electrical discharge machining have been developed. This study introduces an innovative approach that combines the use of insulated coated electrodes with multi-energy field-assisted electrical discharge machining to improve the application of electrical discharge machining in machining deep microporous. We investigated the effects of the insulated electrode and multi-energy field on surface morphology, taper accuracy, diameter cutting, and the thickness of the recast layer in detail. The findings suggest that the insulated coated electrode combined with multi-energy field-assisted electrical discharge machining achieves better taper accuracy and lower diameter cutting, resulting in a smoother surface and a more uniform, thinner recast layer compared to traditional electrical discharge machining.