Embrittlement machining method

Abstract

Embrittlement machining apparatus having an electrolytic container, an anode, a workpiece immersed in the electrolyte forming a cathode, a cutting head adjacent the workpiece and a conduit for supplying an embrittlement agent adjacent the workpiece and adjacent the cutting head.

I claim: 
     
       1. Embrittlement machining method comprising the steps of: 1. placing in a container an electrolytic solution the main constituent of which is alcohol,   2. immersing a workpiece having a portion to be machined in said solution adjacent a cutting head,   3. supplying an embrittling agent of mercury or mercury amalgam to said portion of the workpiece,   4. placing a first electrode in said solution forming an anode, and   5. applying a voltage potential across said anode and said workpiece.   
     
     
       2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: 6. said electrolytic solution comprises ethyl alcohol and perchloric acid.