Convex shaping process simulation during counter-rotating electrochemical machining by using the finite element method

In counter-rotating electrochemical machining (CRECM), a revolving cathode tool with hollow windows of various shapes is used to fabricate convex structures on a revolving part. During this process, the anode workpiece and the cathode tool rotate relative to each other at the same rotation speed. In contrast to the conventional schemes of ECM machining with linear motion of a block tool electrode, this scheme of ECM is unique, and has not been adequately studied yet. In this paper, the finite element method (FEM) is used to simulate the anode shaping process during CRECM, and the simulation process which involves a meshing model, a moving boundary, and a simulation algorithm is described. The simulated anode profiles of the convex structure at different processing times show that the CRECM process can be used to fabricate convex structures of various shapes with different heights. Besides, the variation of the inter-electrode gap indicates that this process can also reach a relative equilibrium state like that in conventional ECM. A rectangular convex and a circular convex are successfully fabricated on revolving parts. The experimental results indicate relatively good agreement with the simulation results. The proposed simulation process is valid for convex shaping prediction and feasibility studies as well. © 2015 The Authors.