Study of the Distribution of Specific Material Removal in Holes during Electrolytic-Plasma Polishing of Stainless Steel

Abstract— A methodology for assessing the current density distribution at the edges of holes during electrolytic plasma polishing of AISI 316 stainless steel has been developed and tested. That methodology enables the quantitative evaluation of edge effects to optimize polishing modes for complex-shaped parts. The influence of the immersion depth (2 and 10 cm) and electrolyte temperature (40–100°C) on the material removal distribution and scattering capacity was studied. Different behavior was demonstrated for the upper and lower edges of the holes: the removal rate at the upper edge was, on average, higher. It was found that scattering capacity increased with increasing the immersion depth, and the most uniform finish was achieved at an electrolyte temperature of 80°C.