When it comes to EDM machine parts, a factory list is an important tool to use when making your sourcing decisions. The list can help you increase your sourcing performance in the manufacturing & processing machinery industry. It contains a variety of manufacturers who specialize in the various aspects of EDM.
Wire EDM
Wire EDM machines use a small traveling wire electrode to machine complex shapes through cavities. Some machines can cut and rethread the wire automatically. This allows them to work unattended for longer periods of time. Many modern machines are capable of accuracies of +/-0.0002″ (0.005mm). They also offer very fine surface finishes, with some machines even capable of producing parts with accuracies of a micron or less.
The electrodes are held vertically by two wire guides. During the machining process, the workpiece is mounted on an x-y table. A CNC servo system controls the relative movement of the workpiece and wire. This servo system automatically adjusts the size of the gap to produce the desired result. In some cases, dielectric fluid is sprayed on the workpiece from above and underneath.
Sinker EDM
Sinker EDM machine parts are precision pieces manufactured using a shaped electrode submerged in a dielectric fluid. Sinker EDM machines are capable of producing highly complex part details. These machines are also known for their extreme reliability. In addition, they feature minimal electrodes, ensuring a low cost of operation.
The most common uses for sinker EDM machines are molds, dies, and cross-sections. This machining technology can produce parts with tighter radii and tolerances than traditional machining techniques. For example, sinker EDM machines are capable of producing parts with a 0.0003” radius or less. With state-of-the-art equipment, sinker EDM machine parts can be manufactured to very precise tolerances.
The process is essentially the same as with wire EDM, but in this case, the electrode is not attached to a tool. The electrode is made in reverse 3D and is slightly smaller than the workpiece. The electrode is then slowly lowered into the workpiece. Non-conductive oil is used to coat the electrodes.
Electrode shaped tool
Electrode-shaped tools are used in EDM machines to cut and shape metal pieces. They are made from a metal alloy that is usually a blend of copper and nickel. There are different types of electrode-shaped tools available, each with a specific function. Some are more suitable for certain types of machining while others are better for others.
The basic process involves mounting a workpiece on a machine tool table. The electrode is then attached to a ram, which is moved up and down by a hydraulic or DC servo. This servo system controls the positioning of the electrode so that it does not come into contact with the workpiece. This gap prevents arcing, which could damage the workpiece or the wire.
CNC servo system
CNC servo systems are used to control the movement of the cutting tool, allowing it to accurately cut EDM machine parts. CNC servo systems have two modes: absolute and incremental. Absolute mode specifies endpoints from the program’s zero point, and incremental mode specifies endpoints from the tool’s current position. When using the incremental mode, the programmer inputs the distance between the program’s zero point and the part’s starting position.
A CNC servo system has two basic loops: the current loop and the position loop. The current loop has the lowest and the innermost links, and it acts as a constant current source. The current loop’s speed determines the amount of control it can offer, and the speed must be proportional to the load’s inertia. The gain, or the amount of control needed to achieve the desired speed, is one of the most important parameters.
Precision CNC machining process
Precision CNC machining is a highly precise process that produces parts with exceptional accuracy. However, this method is not perfect, as a certain amount of variation can occur between the duplicate parts. For this reason, buyers are advised to specify tolerances only in those areas of the part that come into contact with other parts. The standard tolerances for CNC machining are shown in the table below.
A precision CNC machining process involves rotating a workpiece next to a single-point cutting tool. Lathes are commonly used for this process, including engine-purpose lathes and turret lathes. These machines are capable of both straight and taper turning. Another type of precision CNC machining process is drilling. Drilling processes use rotating multi-point drill bits to create holes in metal parts. These drills allow chips to fall away from the workpiece while still cutting the metal.
