Apparatus and method for fast hole drilling by electrical discharge machining

U.S. Patent Number: 5391850

Abstract: An apparatus and method for fast hole drilling by electrical discharge machining. The apparatus includes an indexable table (12) and a rigid vertical frame (14) which straddles the table (12). A slide member (16) is cooperatively attached to the frame (14) so that it may move in relation thereto. A plurality of advancable and retractable heads (18, 20, 22) are associated with the slide member (16) and are adaptable for electrical discharge machining. Each head (18, 20, 22) is adjustably inclinable in a plane which lies parallel to the slide member (16). Each head (18, 20, 22) includes a rotatable, hollow electrode (24) defining an axially extending channel (28). A dielectric fluid (50) passes along the channel (28) so that machining debris may be transported away from a workpiece (11) and drilling operation may proceed in a force-free, non-contacting manner.

Inventors: Mueller; Rainer L. (Plymouth, MI)

Assignee: Ford Motor Company (Dearborn, MI)

Application Number: 08/188,009

Issued: 1995-02-21

Expired: 2007-02-21

Classes: 219/69.2 ; 219/69.11; 219/69.14

Field of search: 219/69.11,69.14,69.15,69.2,69.17

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