Electrical Discharge Machining
One of the many things that sets us aside from Modern Machine Shops, is having in house technology of two different EDM Machines. The EDM Machine was originally used for removing broken tools out of costly parts. It has since then evolved into a beautiful technique of machining.
As Bud Guitrau (1997) defines, “EDM is the process of electronically removing material from any conductive workpiece material. This is achieved by applying high-frequency pulsed, ac, or dc current to the workpiece through an electrode or wire. Positioned very precisely near the workpiece, the electrode never touches the workpiece but discharges its potential current through an insulation dielectric fluid (water or oil) across a very small spark gap” (Guitrau, 1997). *
Sinker EDM
The value of a Sinker EDM or Ram EDM comes from being able to perform precise internal burns that a CNC Mill/Lathe are unable to accomplish. Sinker EDM uses electrodes pieces to burn.
Wire EDM
The difference between Wire EDM and Sinker EDM is in its name. This machine uses a wire electrode to cut precise profiles.
Wire EDM can burn out this profile leaving no entry or exit marks.
Sinker EDM burning a slot into where main bore intersects with an oil passage.
* Guitrau (1997). The EDM Handbook. Cincinnati, OH: Hanser Gardener Publications.