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Conventional EDM

Conventional EDM is also referred to as Sinker EDM or Ram, and uses an electrically charged electrode to burn shapes and holes into metal components. The removed material is washed away by a continuous flush of dielectric fluid. This process is used for the most part in the tool and die industry. Materials of varying hardness or toughness can be

Wire EDM is slightly different than sinker EDM as the electrode used in this process is a wire. Wire EDM cuts all the through the workpiece whereas sinker EDM only sinks a particular shape into the material. The materials most often used for a sinker EDM electrode are brass, copper tungsten, and graphite. Each of these have different effects and there is some debate about which works best, but their qualities make each more appropriate for different applications.

Sinker or conventional EDM is often used when a tight corner radius is needed or for tight tolerances. There is also great versatility when it comes to this particular EDM process as parts of a variety of sizes can be machined. Very small parts to parts over 1,000 pounds can be worked, which makes it an ideal machining process for the production of molds and dies. There several specific types of EDM machining and the difference is the electrode used to create the sparks that remove material from the workpiece. If you are in the market for these services or for an EDM machine itself, contact a manufacturer or provider to discuss what options would work best for you.