Non Traditional Machining - Overview

What is nontraditional machining?

A group of processes that remove material using mechanical, electrical/electrochemical, thermal, or chemical energy rather than a conventional sharp cutting tool.

Why were nontraditional machining processes developed?

To machine hard or unusual materials, create complex geometries, and reduce surface damage when conventional machining is unsuitable.

What are the four main categories of nontraditional machining?

Mechanical energy processes, electrochemical machining processes, thermal energy processes, and chemical processes.

How do cutting forces compare between traditional and nontraditional machining?

Traditional machining generally has high cutting forces; nontraditional machining generally has low or no cutting forces.

Which industries especially motivated the development of nontraditional machining?

Aerospace and electronics.

What is a major cost disadvantage of nontraditional machining?

Equipment and operating costs are usually higher than for conventional machining.

How does material hardness affect many nontraditional processes?

Hardness has little effect in processes such as EDM, ECM, and laser machining.

What geometric advantage do nontraditional processes provide?

They can produce intricate shapes, micro features, deep cavities, and geometries limited by conventional tools.

Which category removes material by localized melting or vaporization?

Thermal energy processes.

Which category selectively attacks exposed material using chemicals and a mask?

Chemical machining.