Selecting the proper electrode material to produce a fine surface finish is vital to the success of the application. It is important to understand which material provides the potential for achieving an acceptable finish without the need for excessive handwork or polishing. By realizing the role that the microstructure of the material plays in producing [...]
A common belief in the moldmaking industry is that a lower quality electrode material can be used to produce superior surface finishes if a high quality EDM machine is used. While the technologies of the newer generation EDM sinkers have allowed the EDMer to become more proficient in the application, […]
With graphite, the magic words are high speed. High speed machining centers with 30,000- to 60,000-rpm spindles are capable of accelerated feeds that serve to reduce cycle times and improve surface finish, as well as edge quality. […]
Automation for EDM drills comes in two main forms: (1) simple mechanical toolchangers and (2) comprehensive robotic systems. Both perform essentially the same function. However, where a toolchanger usually just moves the tool chuck in and out of the machining head (albeit automatically), a robot can also transport electrodes, guides and workpieces in and out [...]
Common work metals, such as tool steels, are easy to EDM with traditional graphite electrodes. Others are not. Because of their unique characteristics, questions continue to arise about effectively EDMing materials like Beryllium Copper, Titanium and Tungsten Carbide. Even though graph-ite electrodes do an admirable job of EDMing these exotic metals, there is a more [...]
There have been many theories written on how copper graphite is created, many of which are completely untrue. […]
first-rate mold company was started in 1989 by steven “We saw an opportunity in the small dimensional tools market and relied on our reputation and broad understanding of moldmaking to move into this niche,” says steven. “Small details can severely affect the quality of a finished part in complex moldmaking,” notes steven. “By providing injection [...]
Costly machinery. Technical know-how. Time-consuming machining. With tighter deadlines being forced on moldmakers in today’s competitive market, who has the time, smarts or the inclination to make their own electrodes? What is a moldmaker to do? Outsource them to a company that makes it their business to produce quality electrodes in no time at all. [...]
Unrivaled advancements in EDM technologies have become an intrinsic means of ensuring success in today’s global competitive environment. Shops today must find a method of reducing manufacturing costs while boosting productivity and providing a quality mold, on time while meeting ever-increasing demands in customer specifications. […]
Cutting is a collection of processes wherein material is brought to a specified geometry by removing excess material using various kinds of tooling to leave a finished part that meets specifications. The net result of cutting is two products, the waste or excess material, and the finished part. If this were a discussion of woodworking, [...]