EDMs, or electronic discharge machines, are computer controlled machine tools that use electrical discharges or sparks to create a desired shape in a metal. An EDM machine may be interchangeably called spark machinery, die sinking, spark eroding or wire erosion since metals are subjected to different electrical process to obtain the desired design or shape.
There are two main types of electronic discharge machines.
A sinker EDM which uses an insulating liquid (oil or dielectric fluid) to apply electrical discharges and a wire EDM that uses a single strand of brass wire to make deep cuts in the metal. Other popular types include small hole and spark EDM’s.
There is a very long list of industries that use these machine tools. From manufacturing coins to fabrication of vehicle parts, these industries and more have benefited from the precision and effectiveness of various EDM machines. In mould production or the creation of prototypes of any machinery component, they are indispensable as a mould-making tool. Countless industries like automotive, electronics, mechanical and aerospace industries have used parts and components that are produced using these machines.
EDMs are also used in processes requiring precise and accurate cutting or forming. A small hole drilling EDM is used to create holes in metal parts so that large plats may be eroded to the metal without the need of pre-drilling. This method is used in many industries to create parts such as turbine blades in jet engines, different components for fuel systems, and many more.
Why are EDMs preferred over other computer controlled cutting machines?
- These machine tools are able to cut hard metals according to any set design which may not be possible using other kinds of traditional cutting tools. They can shape extremely hard metals which are impossible with many other cutting tools and equipment.
- They are designed to create high quality, precision finished products. Problems with final product outcome are eliminated since there is no point of contact in between the tool and the metal or work piece.
- The end result is a metal part with a good surface finish due to the critical cutting
ability of the tool. Even fine holes are possible with an EDM which is impossible to recreate using any standard cutting tool. - The production speed may be slower when compared to high volume production cutting tools but the finished product is as good as the prototype.
- The use of oil-based insulating fluid improves the way the material is cut. This ensures precision and impressive end results which can reduce material costs.
Although the most common disadvantage of excessive wearing of tool parts is inevitable in most EDMs, parts and precision components are typically easy to locate.
There are also many companies that provide maintenance and repair services. These machines do typically require a great deal of maintenance and efficient handling.
However, well-maintained units will provide years of precision service.
An EDM machine is indispensable no matter what industry it is used in, so be sure that you trust only the most reliable EDM distributors in your industry for equipment, parts, and service.
Learn more about Electronic Discharge Machines and find reputable EDM manufacturers at machinesales.com: http://www.machinesales.com/machine-tools/electrical-discharge-machines-edm
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