PEM increases the material removal rate and the total material that can be removed per tool.   The figure on the left shows a comparison of PEM with conventional machining using with carbide tools and WG-300.

The major mode of tool failure without plasma assisted machining is depth notching.  With PEM, depth notching is practically eliminated, thus resulting in longer tool life and more uniform surface finish over the life of a ceramic cutting tool.

Monitoring of the workpiece temperature is carried out by using an infrared pyrometer.  Temperature monitoring provides a feedback necessary for controlling the process conditions.