High rate electrical discharge compaction of powders under controlled oxidation

In the present work the effect of thickness of oxide layer on the breakdown voltage is investigated. Experimental works have been carried out to achieve the variation of the oxide thickness by, deliberate oxidation. In these experiments three-size fraction of steel and copper powders have been used. By conducting metallographic examinations one can show the breakdown of oxide layer surrounding the particles in a powder column. This phenomenon will cause inter-particle, metal–metal contact and fusion. To achieve a homogeneous compaction, an optimum thickness of the oxide layer is required.