Controlled metal removal by parallel-to-face electrochemical machining

Abstract

This is an electrochemical machining process for removing high spots from the surface of reactive metal workpieces. The process utilizes measuring of the workpiece to locate high spots (imperfections), then positioning a wedge-shaped, zero-angle electrochemical machining tool with its center line aligned with the center of the high spot, and then moving the tool parallel to the workpiece surface across the high spot at a product of current times inverse of speed essentially proportional to the amount of material to be removed. Preferably, the speed of tool movement is maintained essentially constant and the current is varied proportionally to the amount of material along the center line of the high spot which is to be removed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.