Spark erosion cutting apparatus with controlled flushing medium flow

Abstract

The disclosed method includes forcing a flushing medium through the work zone in the workpiece in one direction by providing a flushing chamber to one side of the workpiece where the workpiece is being machined. Also disclosed is an apparatus for practicing the method. The apparatus includes means for forming a chamber on one side of the workpiece and for effectively covering portions of the chamber walls which are cut by the wire electrode as the machining progresses, to maintain sufficient flushing pressure in the chamber. In one embodiment, a chamber wall mamber is spaced from the workpiece by a gasket ring and flushing fluid is forced into the space between the two members, so that it is forced from there out from that space through the machining zone in the workpiece. Alternatively, at one of the guide heads there is provided a recess and a ring-shaped sealing diaphragm, so that when the sealing diaphragm is pressed against the workpiece, a flushing chamber is formed from which the flushing fluid can be forced through the workpiece. A similar chamber can be provided on the opposite side of the workpiece at the other guide head to receive the flushing fluid from the workpiece.