Precision engineers need not only CNC machines for their highly intricate operations but also the Electrical Discharge Machining equipment or EDM equipment. EDM is one of the most accurate among manufacturing processes. It is capable of creating either complex or simple shapes within parts and assemblies. EDM manufacturing is affordable and also desirable as a manufacturing process when either low counts or high accuracy is required.
Many EDM machine electrodes can rotate about two-three axis thereby allowing for the cutting of internal cavities. The 4th axis EDM has capabilities that are normally not found in other manufacturing processes. Such an EDM therefore offers additional range of machining ability. There are several occasions wherein only a
Many EDM machine electrodes can rotate about two-three axis thereby allowing for the cutting of internal cavities. The 4th axis EDM has capabilities that are normally not found in other manufacturing processes. Such an EDM therefore offers additional range of machining ability. There are several occasions wherein only a
4th
axis EDM is useful in the production of complex parts. Such EDM capability also yields superior finish.
The other special kind of EDM process is that of the EDM hole popper. In this, the EDM electrode is either of brass or copper tube and this is used to blast holes through the work piece. The popper has a very aggressive power supply and this type of technique provides the ability to drill pilot holes through materials that are heat treated or carbide.
The EDM hole popper is indispensable in cases such as the small hole drilling in turbine blades to help expand the thermal envelope of the high-pressure turbine blade. These holes are drilled into both the leading and trailing edges of the blades used in jet engines. The gas flowing through these tiny holes allows the engines to use higher temperatures. This technique is also used to create microscopic orifices for fuel system components among other applications.
The other special kind of EDM process is that of the EDM hole popper. In this, the EDM electrode is either of brass or copper tube and this is used to blast holes through the work piece. The popper has a very aggressive power supply and this type of technique provides the ability to drill pilot holes through materials that are heat treated or carbide.
The EDM hole popper is indispensable in cases such as the small hole drilling in turbine blades to help expand the thermal envelope of the high-pressure turbine blade. These holes are drilled into both the leading and trailing edges of the blades used in jet engines. The gas flowing through these tiny holes allows the engines to use higher temperatures. This technique is also used to create microscopic orifices for fuel system components among other applications.
