There are multiple ways to remove material from a part during manufacturing, and EDM manufacturing is one way to do it. There are some circumstances where EDM manufacturing is the best option for you to choose, while there are other circumstances where you might choose a different manufacturing process.
Clear Advantages of EDM Manufacturing
EDM machining is often chosen because it allows for complex shapes to be created more easily than with traditional milling methods. EDM makes it easier to create very small parts. Conventional tools are more likely to damage small parts. Also, EDM allows for the creation of very fine holes, and tamper holes can also be created. On top of that, EDM allows for very hard materials to be worked with at very close tolerances. There is also no contact between the tool and the workpiece. As a result, weak materials can be machined without perceptible distortions.
EDM Manufacturing Engineers
One of the challenges in performing EDM manufacturing is finding an EDM manufacturing engineer who has the training necessary to perform this method of material removal. Fortunately, there are several EDM manufacturing services you may hire that will perform this task for you.
EDM Manufacturing and Automation
Fortunately, you might not need a lot of manpower to perform EDM because this form of manufacturing can often be automated. When EDM manufacturing is automated, the workpiece is mounted to a pallet and the automation equipment chucks the workpiece in and out. However, the robot is going to need to be made from stainless steel because you will be working with deionized water. Otherwise, the automation robot is not going to last that long.
Sinker EDM is a better option when automating manufacturing processes compared with wire EDM because you may automate the electrode tool in addition to the workpiece. The necessary tool can be created while traveling between two machines.
Optimized EDM Machines
Some shops find that EDM machines aren't utilized to their maximum level of efficiency because of workholding and the machine setup time. However, the workholding is not as bad with EDM as it is with milling. One issue is with electrode wear, requiring electrodes to become replaced. However, newer EDM machines don't wear out electrodes as fast. For wire EDM machines to be efficient, they must be maintained. But with the right processes in place, EDM manufacturing will improve the productivity of your manufacturing firm.
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