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 [...]
“Can I die sink EDM two different workpiece materials at the same time?” is a frequently asked EDM question, especially in mold manufacturing where tool steels and copper alloys are often involved. […]
The workpiece material and the process parameters of a sinker EDM operation can impact productivity and profitability. Although most moldmakers will agree that the main objective for manufacturing any product is to make a profit, it is often difficult to ensure that the manufac-turing process is profitable and to continue to refine that process to consistently [...]
Moldmakers benefit the most, by far, from fully digital sinker EDM generators. The digital technology has advanced the functionality of generators to the point where mold shops can now precisely control and manipulate the EDM spark. Such control allows them to produce components that reduce overall mold maintenance costs for their customers. […]
Most mold builders are familiar with the 5S workplace organization method for lean manufacturing, which embraces the concepts of sort, set in order, shine, standardize and sustain. Each aspect focuses on avoiding waste and can easily serve as a basis for continuous improvement within mold shops that use EDM and graphite. […]
The set-in-order 5S principle involves making workflow smooth and easy, arranging items for easy selection and preventing lost time. […]
Standardizing involves adopting best practices, establishing a standard for every process, aligning everything in its right place and maintaining high standards of workplace organization. […]
With manufacturers putting increased pressure on their suppliers for cost savings and efficiencies, mold manufacturers are being challenged to produce consistent, accurate product cost quotes. These challenges include the need for: […]
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 [...]
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. […]