Wire EDM Machining

Wire EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) is a metal removal process used to cut conductive materials by using a thin electrode and a controlled electrical current. The electrode is a thin wire (typically .004"-.012") that follows a programmed path through the part eroding material away. There is always a gap between the part and the wire, so there is no contact and virtually no deflecting force applied to the part, which ensures greater accuracy of the finished part. The electrode, or wire, is charged and surrounded by de-ionized water.  A spark is generated that jumps the gap and melts a small amount of material on the part, removing that material.