Study on blasting erosion arc machining method for RBSiC

Reaction bonded SiC (RBSiC) ceramics have been widely applied in components such as astronomical telescopes due to their exceptional physical and chemical properties. However, its high removal margin poses challenges to its broader application. Blasting erosion arc machining (BEAM) demonstrates significant potential for efficiently processing RBSiC, offering promising solutions for its removal challenges. In this study, the single-discharge process on RBSiC was investigated, with voltage-current characteristics, surface morphology, cracks, microstructural features, and surface composition to analyze the material removal mechanism. Additionally, optimal arc machining parameters to minimize break were proposed and validated by experiment. Efficient machining of RBSiC can be achieved without causing fracture by employing the provided processing parameters.