7-in-1 micromachine

Similar to multitask machining in the macro world, doing all micromachining operations in one machine enhances part precision and improves production efficiency. New to North America, the standard Model DT-110 Hybrid µEDM from Mikrotools Pte. Ltd. performs sinker EDMing, EDM milling, electrical-discharge grinding (EDGing), turning, milling, drilling and part inspection. Options include attachments for wire EDMing and wire EDGing. According to Mervyn Fathianathan, CEO of Mikrotools, every machine purchased so far has included the optional attachments.

Images courtesy of Mikrotools

Mikrotools’ Model DT-110 Hybrid µEDM (above) can perform seven machining operations. Below: Users can directly turn electrodes, such as this 19µm-dia. shaft, on the machine with PCD tools.

Because the machine has a turning capability, users can produce microelectrodes on the same machine in which they are applied. Fathianathan explained that the patented microturning process reduces the time needed to produce an electrode from hours to minutes.

In addition, turning electrodes on the machine prevents setup errors that can occur when an electrode is fabricated on another machine, according to Fathianathan. “With microturning in place, we can automatically fabricate electrodes, perform the EDM operation and refabricate the electrode without human intervention,” he said.