초록 ▼

The present invention provides an improved method for rapidly making an electrode for electrical discharge machining. According to the invention, a stereolithography process is used to make a cured resin model of the electrode and having a network of interconnected supporting members defining the sh

The present invention provides an improved method for rapidly making an electrode for electrical discharge machining. According to the invention, a stereolithography process is used to make a cured resin model of the electrode and having a network of interconnected supporting members defining the shape of the electrode and leaving channels between the supporting members to drain away uncured resin from the model. After the model is fully cured and the uncured resin drained away, a slurry mixture of graphite and resin is infiltrated into the voids of the model. The resin is then heat cured so that the resin is burned away leaving the electrode of pure carbon. Alternatively, the graphite and resin mixture can be cured sufficiently to harden and then an electrically conductive metalized coating is applied on the outer surface.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] Method of making an electrode for electrical discharge machining comprising the steps of:a. creating a cured resin model of the electrode having a network of interconnected supporting members defining the shape of the part and leaving voids between the supporting members

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] Method of making an electrode for electrical discharge machining comprising the steps of:a. creating a cured resin model of the electrode having a network of interconnected supporting members defining the shape of the part and leaving voids between the supporting members to drain away uncured resin;b. infiltrating a mixture of carbon and resin into the voids; andc. curing the mixture of carbon and resin to provide an electrically conductive carbon electrode.