Surface modification in electrodischarge processing with a powder compact tool electrode

During electrodischarge machining (EDM) the topography and metallurgical and physicochemical properties of the surface layer change considerably. Under certain conditions, the metal transfer from the tool electrode to the machined surface is also appreciable. By employing suitable process parameters, surface modification for desired functional behaviour is possible by EDM. In this paper, the metal transfer from the tool electrode is studied by cross-sectional examination, electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis and X-ray diffraction analysis of the work surface. The associated changes in the surface topography are analysed by scanning electron microscopy and the harmonic contents of the surface profiles.