
355
11
Machining by Electrochemical Erosion
11.1 Introduction
Electrolysis occurs when an electric current is passed between two elec-
trodes dipped into an electrolytic solution. A typical example is shown
in Figure 11.1, where the two copper electrodes are connected to a source
of direct current (DC) and immersed in a solution of copper sulfate in
water. The system of electrodes and electrolyte is referred to as the electro-
lytic cell. The chemical reactions that occur at the electrodes are called the
anodic or cathodic reactions. Electrolytic dissolution of the anodic elec-
trode forms the basis for electrochemical machining (ECM) of metals and ...