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- Title
The experimental analysis of the boric acid–based electric discharge machining.
- Authors
Zhang, Yaou; Zheng, Qian; Yang, Xiangjun; Liao, Hualin; Gao, Qiang; Lu, Juncheng; Zhao, Wansheng
- Abstract
The components inside nuclear reactors, submerged in boric acid shielding media, are constantly exposed to high levels of radiation, heat, and pressure within a small confined environment. This prolonged exposure often leads to damage such as wear, corrosion, and cracking. Online repair of damaged components in a nuclear radiation environment is the biggest challenge in the operation and maintenance of nuclear power plants. Electric discharge machining (EDM) is emerging as a promising online repair method for unlike traditional machining techniques, it does not rely on mechanical forces and is not limited by the hardness or stiffness of the machined parts and moreover has a high degree of automation. However, it is crucial to note that EDM requires non-conductive dielectric, which might not be compatible with the conductive boric acid. Therefore, it is essential to examine the feasibility of EDM in a solution containing boric acid. This paper investigates the material removal mechanism of boric acid–based EDM and subsequently focuses on material machining efficiency and quality. The experimental results found that similar to water-based media, no significant chemical reaction phenomenon occurred between the workpiece and the boric acid solution when there is no external power supply. However, the findings indicate that compared to deionized water, boric acid–based EDM can produce more bubbles, significantly enhancing debris exclusion. Furthermore, the experimental results demonstrate that although the material removal rate of boric acid–based EDM is slightly lower than that in deionized water, the discharge stability is greatly improved. Additionally, the machining surface roughness (SR) and the recast zone layer (RZL) thickness are decreased. The surface quality is also greatly improved, especially with a great reduction in surface defects such as microcracks. These excellent experimental results confirm that boric acid solution is a suitable medium for EDM, which provides solutions for the demanding online maintenance needs of equipment in the radiation environment of nuclear power plants.
- Publication
International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 2024, Vol 133, Issue 3/4, p1217
- ISSN
0268-3768
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1007/s00170-024-13771-w