An Introduction To Wire EDM



Posted: Tuesday, December 05, 2006

by

EDM refers to wire electrical discharge machining. Wire electrical discharge machining or EDM is a metalworking process with the help of which a material is separated from a conductive work piece, by means of electrical erosion. The wire never comes in contact with the conductive work piece. The wire electrode leaves a path on the work piece, which is slightly larger than the wire. Most often a 0.010" wire is used which creates a 0.013" to 0.014" gap. The wire electrode once passed through the work piece cannot be reused.

Wire electrical discharge machining is mainly used to cut intricate shapes and designs into hard metals, which are otherwise difficult to form, mold or manipulate. It is most useful in the electronics and aerospace sectors for prototyping and manufacturing various parts. Most often, steel and titanium are processed with help of wire electrical-discharge machining. Jewelry designers are using the system for cutting intricate shapes. Even artists working with metals find the machining very convenient and practical to use.

Many manufactures are profiting from the production of wire electrical discharge machining systems. There is a large selection available in EDM wires, providing a choice of optimum brands, typed, diameter, spool size and spool weight for almost any machine and application.

Joseph Priestly invented the Wire EDM in 1770, but it was very imprecise and prone to failures in the initial stage. It soon became popular and is now a key component in the manufacture of injection molds and metal stamping dies. The purchase of a new wire electrical discharge machining system requires a huge capital. Many invest in used wire EDM’ s, which are available in all types.

There are people who have ventured to create the complex systems at home too. This ensures them the ability to be self- employed.

 
This Article has been viewed 2,351 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
No comments yet.
We want your comments! If you can read this, you don't have javascript enabled, so you can't use this comment system. Please enable javascript.