RE: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Aluminium as Electrode

Hi Roland,
It's a good thing you asked before trying this at home. You may wish to
spend a little time reading up on Aluminum's chemical properties.
Additionally, Thermite may ring a bell with some folks. Aluminum will
sustain combustion very aggressively, ESPECIALLY under water. Once ignited,
Aluminum is nearly impossible to extinguish and burns white-hot.

Thanks,
Andrey Lipavsky
Essex Jewelers
490 E. McMillan St.
Studio 205
Cincinnati, OH 45206
Phone (513) 826-0240
Fax (866) 653-9702
www.essexjewelers.com


From: CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Roland Jollivet
Sent: Saturday, December 06, 2008 12:43 PM
To: CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Aluminium as Electrode

Hi All

Just joined and first post;

I'd like to know if anyone has had any experience with using Aluminium as an
electrode?

The scenario is that I want to build an EDM circular saw to cut tool steel.
Now normally, a copper or brass disc is used. However, finding suitable
material, shim like, but FLAT, is a bit difficult. However, Aluminium sheet,
0.15mm, is available by the truckload, flat, neatly packed, and cheap.

I understand the virtues of copper, brass, graphite as electrodes, and how
easily aluminium is eroded as a target, but I'm really battling to find any
info on Aluminium specifically used as the electrode.

So, the question is, will it work, or will the Aluminium get chewed up so
fast so as to be not worthwhile?
(PS, cut feed/speed is not an issue, it can run all day)

Regards
Roland Jollivet
.

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