Advantages of EDM
EDM, or electrical discharge machining, is a powerful tool for the machining industry. It allows for the removal of hard-to-machine materials with high precision and accuracy without damaging the workpiece. This article discusses some of the advantages of edm and how it can help with various projects.
This manufacturing process utilizes a series of recurring electrical discharges along a wire or a piece of metal to cut through the material of the part. It does not require mechanical force to work and can be used on virtually any conductive metal. It can produce contoured shapes and intricate holes. However, it is important to note that this method does not cut wood, plastic, or composite materials. It also does not work well with materials that are not heat-resistant and may be prone to distortion due to stress relief or hardening.
For example, wire EDM can be an ideal solution for cutting complex geometry parts out of solid tungsten carbide or other hard metals that are too difficult to machine by conventional means. It is also useful for machining through-holes in complex shapes and to remove burrs from previous cutting passes. It is not, however, suitable for making very short cutoffs of tubing or generating quality surface finishes.
Ultimately, the best EDM process for your project will depend on shop experience, available machines, and the materials you are working with. For general purposes, however, milling is typically the preferred machining method over EDM, especially for deep cutting or high accuracy.
