Device and Method for Plasma Electrolytic Processing of the Electrically Conductive Surface of a Workpiece by Electrolytic Blasting

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This patent covers a device and method for plasma-electrolytic processing of electrically conductive surfaces, particularly those of metallic workpieces. The invention enables the simultaneous or sequential application of at least two different electrolyte jets, each with individually adjustable properties such as jet shape, direction, flow, and composition, to the surface. By generating multiple, configurable active zones, the system can efficiently polish, clean, deburr, or texture complex geometries, providing flexible and targeted surface treatment in industrial applications.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Polishing and smoothing of intricate or large metallic and conductive surfaces in manufacturing
• Selective deburring of complex components, such as those found in automotive and aerospace parts
• Sterilizing and cleaning of medical devices and surgical tools
• Surface passivation or oxidation coatings for corrosion resistance in energy or chemical processing equipment
• Treating additively manufactured (3D-printed) metal components to improve their surface qualities
• Automated or robotic finishing cells in high-volume industrial production lines

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Simultaneous or targeted processing of large or complex surfaces, reducing overall treatment time
• Customizable jet properties allow adaptation for various materials, geometries, and processing goals
• Cleaner, safer, and more environmentally friendly than traditional abrasive or acid-based methods
• Improved reproducibility and process control for high-quality, consistent surfaces
• Potential for integration into automated, digital manufacturing processes, enhancing productivity and reducing manual labor
• Lower energy and resource consumption for selective or partial surface treatment compared to treating the whole workpiece
• Enhanced flexibility for both small-batch and mass production scenarios

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) and a method for plasma-electrolyte processing of an electrically conductive surface (2) of a workpiece (3), wherein it is essential that at least two jet active regions are generated on the workpiece surface. The device has an application unit (4) for impacting the surface (2) with an electrolyte jet, by means of a supply unit (5) for at least intermittently supplying the application unit (4) with the electrolyte required to generate the electrolyte jet, by means of at least one electrode (6) which forms a counter electrode to the surface (2) during the processing, and by means of at least one electrical energy source (7), with which the electrode and the surface can be supplied with electrical energy during the processing, in such a way that a current flows between the electrode (6) and the surface (2) to be processed on contact with the electrolyte.