EDMing

The pros and cons of graphite and copper electrodes for sinker EDMing.

Fast-hole EDMs create deep holes in tough-to-machine materials.

The author discusses three recent advancements in electrical discharge machining: the use of linear motors on EDMs, wire EDMs with an automatic slug-removal capability and dielectric fluid additives that yield finer part finishes.

U.S. wire-EDM shops can stack up better pricewise against foreign competitors by automating their production.

Impact of graphite selection on electrical discharge machining.

Considerations and cost justifications when purchasing your first EDM.

The efficiency of a die-sinker EDM operation can be enhanced by automating at least part of the work handling or tool handling. This article describes the automation that is available, from the simplest electrode grippers to fully automated toolchanging systems.

Copper is difficult to EDM because of its high thermal conductivity. This article discusses the electrodes and machine settings to use for this demanding task.

With wire EDM, the properties of the wire will have a large impact on the performance of the operation as well as the ease of rethreading. This article discusses the properties that ensure a good spark and reliable performance even when cutting at an angle. Real-world examples are given of users who have improved their operations by changing the type of wire they were using.

EDM cutting conditions change throughout the cutting process as the part thickness and the level of dielectric contamination fluctuates. This article describes an experimental setup that can monitor these fluctuations and adjust the EDM's settings to maintain an optimal spark.