The use of copper-impregnated graphite electrodes is often thought only to be effective when EDMing more challenging metals such as titanium, carbide, copper alloys or exotic materials (exotic refers to an EDM workpiece material that has a high thermal conductivity value, a unique elemental makeup or possesses a very high melting point). While a copper-graphite [...]
There has been a long-standing, unresolved debate over whether graphite or copper is a better EDM electrode material. The preference is most always the same in any one geographical region. In North America , the preferred electrode material has shifted from copper to graphite. In Europe and Asia, many argue that copper is the preferable [...]
This is a very economical process for cutting through-hole of arbitrary geometry in workpiece. The wall of the openings may be inclined to the plate surface. Thanks to the considerable efficiency of this process, some cavities are increasingly being cut directly into mold plates. […]
In plain vertical eroding, the eroded configuration is already dimensionally determined by the shape and dimensions of the electrode. Machining of undercuts is not feasible. […]
This creates craters in both electrodes, the size of which are related to the energy of the spark. Thus, a distinction is drawn between roughing with high impulse energy and planning. […]
Electric-discharge machining is a reproducing forming process, which uses the material removing effect of short, successive electric discharges in a dielectric fluid. […]
The production of electrodes is a key stage in the manufacture of many types of tooling, including injection molds, so the availability of a faster, more automated method for their development will increase efficiency and reduce leadtimes across a number of industries. Here is where CAD/CAM comes into play. […]
Die sinking EDM works wonders in cutting contours or cavities in pre-hardened steel. When dealing with complex shapes, however, milling the electrodes that produce these intricate pieces can be a quite involved and time-consuming process, so manufacturers want to extend electrode life as much as possible. […]