The thin wire (light copper or brass) in wire EDM machines represents the electrode, while deionized water is the dielectric fluid in use. It is a popular cutting tool in the EDM machining processes that uses thin wires to cut workpieces. Wire Erosion (EDM) is also called wire EDM, wire burning spark eroding, or spark EDM. Types of Electrical Discharge Machining Wire Cut EDM On the other hand, the liquid acts as a cooling agent during machining. Here, a stable flow of the dielectric fluid assists in getting rid of the excess metal. This heating causes some parts of the material to melt off (liquid dielectric breakdown). The whole electrical discharge process results in intense heating. This lasts till it gets to a breakdown volume. Whenever the electrode closes in on the conductive material, the electric field gradually increases. This process aims to remove materials from the workpiece with supervised electrical discharges to get the desired shape. The workpiece electrode and the tool electrode must not touch each other during the operations. The anode is the workpiece electrode, and it changes shape to make itself suitable for the role.Īt the same time, the cathode performs the tool-electrode functions. The two electrodes involved in EDM are the “anode” and “cathode.” Each of these electrodes has its function in the process. This is because it does not apply cutting pressure or vibrations. EDM is an effective and safer custom machining method for producing several components with critical tolerances. This includes intricate cuts such as a particularly deep cavity or sharp internal corners. Manufacturers often see the EDM equipment as a solution whenever machining procedures like CNC milling and turning fail to provide the desired cuts. This process is sometimes called arc machining or spark machining. This is in contrast to the mechanical force used in traditional methods. Let’s get to it! What is Electrical Discharge Machining?Įlectrical Discharge Machining (EDM) is a non-traditional process of manufacturing that uses thermal energy to remove materials from a partially finished product. This article will walk you through how EDM works, its types, and how you can get the best out of it. Manufacturers turn to this process to manufacture parts that are seemingly impossible or difficult to machine.Įlectrical discharge machining has countless applications in industries such as automotive, electronics, aerospace, medicine, food and beverages, stamping, and defense. EDM is an efficient and reliable method of removing excess material from a workpiece using thermal energy. With the many limitations of traditional machining methods, electrical discharge machining has proven to be the alternative for manufacturers.

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