The EDM is derived from Electrical Discharge Machining.
The EDM process as we know it today started in 1770 with the observations of Joseph Preistly. He noticed that electrical discharges had removed material from electrodes used in his experiments. This is also known as electro-discharge erosion.
Later on in the 1940’s Soviet researchers developed a machining process that formed the foundation for modern day EDM.
Electric Discharge Machining
The basic EDM process is an electrical spark that is created between an electrode and a work piece. The spark is visible evidence of the electro-discharge. This electric spark produces intense heat with temperatures reaching 8000 to 12000 degrees Celsius, melting almost anything.
The spark is very carefully controlled and localized so that it only affects the surface of the material. The EDM process usually does not affect the heat treat below the surface. With wire EDM the spark always takes place in the dielectric of deionized water. The conductivity of the water is carefully controlled making an excellent environment for the EDM process. The water acts as a coolant and flushes away the eroded metal particles.
This practice is when material is removed from a project using thermal energy. Like laser cutting, this method does not use mechanical force throughout the removal process when CNC machining in Missouri does. This practice is popular in use with difficult shapes and materials. It is versatile and able to work on a variety of projects.
In more complicated terms, this machine uses a process that takes out material by using an electrode. The electrode leaves behind a negative imprint on the project, initiating a discharge that removes material through melting or vaporizing.
Every conductive material can be worked on with an EDM machining . That list includes titanium, steel, and other hardened composites. This makes it an ideal tool to use on projects that include those materials, as other machines cannot work on them efficiently. Another benefit of this practice is that it results in less mechanical force used in the shop. Compared to other practices like CNC machining, where cutting tools are used, this method becomes a more versatile option. It can allow for shapes and depths that are not possible with cutting tools alone. Another benefit of this practice is that the surface finish of the project is much higher quality than other end results.