Experiment investigation on machining characteristics of 7075 aluminium alloy with short electric arc milling

To improve the processing deformation, low efficiency, tool wear, surface burrs and other problems of aluminium alloy thin-walled parts, a study on 7075 aluminium alloy using short electric arc milling (SEAM) technology is proposed. Using the material removal rate, relative tool wear ratio, surface roughness and side taper of workpiece as technical indexes, the effects of voltage, duty cycle, frequency and electrode material on aluminium alloy processing performance were studied. The surface morphology, chemical composition, microstructure and microhardness of 7075 aluminium alloy were analysed, and the machining mechanism of 7075 aluminium alloy was further revealed. Comparing the processing results of different electrode materials, the copper electrode can process aluminium alloys with an efficiency of up to 14940 mm 3 /min, good surface finish and high dimensional accuracy. This work lays a foundation for high efficiency and high quality SEAM of 7075 aluminium alloy.