The formation of a single-pulse electrospark deposition spot

The investigation of the formation mechanism of the rotating-type electrospark deposition (ESD) was presented, based on studying the single-pulse electrospark deposition spot. Four different substrate/electrode couples were selected to produce single-pulse deposition spots. The similar morphology of the spots and element migration tendency were detected. A heuristic physical model was established to interpret this deposition process. The concept of “gush and splash effect” was originally proposed and proved as the dominant factor in the formation mechanism of the single-pulse electrospark deposition spot. In addition, the rotation behavior of the electrode was identified to impact on the formation of the single-pulse deposition spot.