Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is an electrical machining process that shapes parts with extreme precision, using electrical discharges to remove material. There are two main variants of this technique: wire EDM and sinker EDM. In this article, we’ll take a look at these two branches of EDM processes, highlighting their distinctions, their applications and their essential role in the production of high-quality parts.
Wire EDM, also known as wire cutting, is a machining technique that uses a fine conductive wire to cut a workpiece. The wire is usually made of brass, copper or copper-coated steel and is tensioned between two pulleys. An electric current flows through the wire, creating sparks between the wire and the workpiece. These sparks remove material from the part, cutting it into the desired shape. Wire EDM is widely used to cut complex parts with precise contours, particularly in industries such as mold making, cutting tool production and the manufacture of parts from difficult-to-machine materials such as titanium or tungsten carbide. This technique enables the production of complex shapes, fine grooves and high-precision details.
Plunge EDM, also known as spark or sinker EDM, is another variant of EDM. In this process, an electrode of the desired shape is used to sink into the workpiece. The electrode is generally made of copper or graphite. A dielectric fluid, such as oil or water, is used to cool the workpiece and electrode, while removing metal debris generated during the process.
Plunge EDM is commonly used in the manufacture of stamping dies, precision components, gears, fuel injectors and other high-precision parts. It can be used to produce complex cavities, deep holes, internal and external shapes with excellent surface finish.
Main differences between the two techniques
The main difference between wire EDM and plunge EDM lies in the way the material is removed. Wire EDM cuts the workpiece with a fine wire, while plunge EDM uses an electrode that sinks into the material and erodes it. In addition, wire EDM is mainly used for cutting flat or profiled parts, while plunge EDM is suitable for creating internal cavities and complex shapes.
Applications and importance of EDM
Both EDM techniques are essential for the production of high-precision parts. They are widely used in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, toolmaking, medicine and jewelry. EDM can be used to create components that would be difficult, if not impossible, to produce using other machining methods.
In conclusion, wire EDM and plunge EDM are electrical machining techniques that play a crucial role in the manufacture of high-precision parts. Each of these techniques offers specific advantages and unique applications, contributing to the production of complex parts of unrivalled quality. Thanks to EDM, many industries can meet increasingly stringent design requirements and produce the precision components needed for a wide range of applications.
Qty | Brand | Type | Specifications | Strokes in (mm) | ||
X | Y | Z | ||||
1 | FANUC |
Wire ROBOCUT αOid |
320 | 220 | 254 | |
1 | FANUC |
Wire ROBOCUT αGoose |
|
600 | 400 | 410 |
1 | FANUC |
Wire ROBOCUT αOic |
370 | 270 | 255 | |
1 | SODICK |
Press-in AG60L |
|
650 | 450 | 350 |
1 | NSD |
Quick drilling 530K |
|
550 | 300 | 640 |
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