Electrical discharge machining (EDM) using a thin, continuously fed wire as an electrode offers intricate shaping of conductive materials. This process, often employed for die and mold making, intricate part fabrication, and small hole drilling, leverages a controlled spark erosion process. A submerged cutting wire, guided by computerized numerical control (CNC), precisely follows programmed paths, eroding the workpiece to achieve the desired geometry. The system typically employs deionized water as a dielectric fluid, which both cools and flushes away eroded particles.
Automated wire-cut EDM provides high precision and excellent surface finish, often eliminating the need for secondary finishing operations. Its ability to machine hard metals and complex shapes makes it indispensable in industries requiring tight tolerances and intricate designs, such as aerospace, medical device manufacturing, and automotive. The development and refinement of this technology have significantly impacted manufacturing processes, enabling the creation of components previously impossible to manufacture through traditional machining methods.
