Electrical discharge machining is a technological process that allows excess material to be removed from the surface of an electrically conductive workpiece through a series of electrical discharges between a tool electrode and the workpiece in a dielectric medium. Due to the absence of physical contact between the tool and the workpiece, this method enables the production of precise shapes, slots, technological holes, and complex contours, especially in hard alloys that are difficult to machine using conventional methods.
The manufacturing company New Standard provides electrical discharge machining services using specialized technological equipment in accordance with the requirements of technical documentation.
Electrical Discharge Machining of Metals | How It Works
Electrical discharge machining is based on high-frequency electrical pulses: sparks are generated between the electrode and the surface of the metal workpiece, melting and vaporizing microscopic particles of material. The entire process takes place in a dielectric liquid (for example, purified technical oil), which cools the machining zone and flushes away erosion products. A wire or a ram (pin-type) electrode is used as the tool electrode.
Key Advantages of Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)
- Ability to machine ultra-hard materials and alloys;
- High machining accuracy;
- Excellent surface finish and absence of mechanical stresses;
- Capability to create complex shapes and geometries.
EDM cutting and machining are used in the production of parts for aviation, marine, river, railway, and automotive transport, as well as in the aerospace industry, medicine, electronics, and microelectronics. This technology is also widely applied in the manufacture of molds, dies, and other precision components.
Electrical Discharge Machining | Main Types
- Wire EDM — a thin copper or brass wire (0.02–0.30 mm) is used as the tool electrode; wire cutting allows complex contours to be cut with accuracy of up to 2 microns.
- Sinker (Ram) EDM — a specially shaped electrode automatically reproduces its geometry as it penetrates the workpiece, forming cavities and holes.
- EDM hole drilling — creation of pilot holes for subsequent finishing operations.
- Surface EDM — marking (text, decorative patterns) and modification of surface layer properties of the workpiece.
EDM is also combined with other methods, such as EDM grinding (combined with abrasive machining) or anodic–mechanical machining.
How to Order EDM Cutting and Metal Machining
New Standard provides electrical discharge machining services in accordance with the customer’s technical specifications. We work with drawings and individual requirements. To place an order, please contact us by phone or email.