Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)
Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is an important non-conventional manufacturing technology which has been used for decades for the production of components used in a variety of industries, including aerospace and medical. EDM uses a high voltage pulse between two electrodes to generate sparks at the surface of an electrically conductive workpiece. This spark erodes metal from the surface of the workpiece, allowing it to take shape and create complex shapes which are often impossible to produce using conventional machining.
EDM works by using electrical energy to remove metal from a workpiece. This process is driven by a CNC controller, which moves two small electrodes independently in three axes at speeds controlled by the operator. The sparks which are generated by EDM can be controlled both in time and distance. This allows the operator to control the speed, consistency and accuracy of the machining process.
In EDM, a tool with a complex shape is placed in a tank of liquid dielectric. The tool is connected to an electrical power source and, when energised, the heat generated by the sparks melts the metal, allowing the tool to cut away material from the workpiece. The liquid dielectric helps to cool the sparking process, as well as reducing the risk of overheating.
The advantages of EDM are many, including its ability to create complex parts to an extraordinary degree of exactness, as well as its ability to machine very hard materials. EDM is also able to machine components which would be impossible to machine using conventional methods, such as deep cavities and intricate shapes.
EDM is extremely efficient, as it can take into account any changes in the piece which are needed as the machining progresses. The tool does not need to be changed as often as it does in traditional machining processes, and the setup time is much shorter than in conventional machining.
EDM is widely used in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and medical. EDM is suitable for machining components made from materials such as brass, aluminium, titanium, and stainless steel.
In conclusion, EDM is a highly reliable and accurate manufacturing technology which has been used for decades to produce components which would be impossible to produce in any other way. It is an ideal process for machining components to an extraordinary degree of accuracy, and is suitable for materials which may be difficult to machine using conventional techniques. EDM also has the added advantage of being extremely efficient, as the tool does not need to be changed as often, and the setup time is much shorter than in conventional machining processes.
