10007546Multi-axis NanoECM machine for sub-micro scale component manufactureClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKMany industries, including electronics and medical are interested in miniaturisation, but this requires the ability to machine increasingly small components with superior geometries and surface topologies. Our conventional electro-chemical machining (ECM) machines are sold to customers globally and operate at the macro-scale, attaining surface roughness ~0.2 micro-metre Ra (depending on material grain). Although high-quality, our customers state this intricacy is not conducive for machining at the sub-micro scale and does not deliver the array of 3D geometries modern industries aspire to. Our new approach will address these short-comings and have profound industrial and social benefits. PECM (in collaboration with Brunel University & Faraday Motion Control) wish to engineer a 4-axis micro-pulsed electro-chemical machine (micro-pECM) capable of fabricating sub-micro scale multi-dimensionally in a single machining iteration; with Ra down to 5-nano-metres. Brunel University have proven the concept by building a laboratory single-axis prototype through two FP7-projects. Brunel University now wish to build upon this success and partner with PECM-Systems and Faraday Motion Control to develop the above proposed test machine. BENEFITS: (1) customers can develop new, miniaturised products to drive sales; (2) cost effective system (relatively cheap technology and no specialist tooling required); (3) reduced material consumption (environmental benefit. . Key technical risks are associated with: (1) producing desired rate of electrical pulses; (2) Real-time inter electrode adaptive gap monitoring, control of multi-axis and material removal rates not achievable in a commercial machine; (3) ensuring motion control specification and operational mode is developed coherently to ECM hardware and power supply system.