Micro-machining through electrochemical discharge processes: a review

The present study reviews the state-of-the-art mechanism for the generation of spark by means of micro-electrochemical discharge machining (µ-ECDM) process. It also describes various electrical and non-electrical parameters, influencing performance of the machining process. In the process, several variants of µ-ECDM process have been outlined which were developed with technological advancements for enhanced performance. The review also makes an in-depth study on advancement of micro- and nano-size tool manufacturing processes by unconventional machining techniques. Finally, it sums up potential of this process for development of various hybrid machining processes to achieve better performance.