EDMElectrical Discharge Machining (EDM), also known as spark machining or spark eroding, is a non-traditional machining process that emerged around the mid-20th century. The fundamental principle behind EDM was first observed in 1770 by English scientist Joseph Priestley, but it wasn’t until the 1940s that the process was refined and utilized for commercial purposes, primarily for the removal of broken drills and taps in die casting.

The EDM process involves the use of electrical discharges or sparks to machine a specific part. It’s a process where material is removed from a workpiece through a series of rapidly recurring electrical discharges between an electrode and the workpiece, separated by a dielectric liquid which helps in the discharge process.

The major breakthrough in the advancement of EDM came with the development of the transistor in the late 1940s. With the arrival of the transistor and the later development of the numerically controlled (NC) machines in the 1960s, EDM became a viable and efficient manufacturing process. Today, EDM is a well-established machining method extensively used in the automotive, aerospace, and electronics industries, for its ability to create complex and precise shapes in pre-hardened steel without inducing heat stress.

Understanding Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)

EDM electrical discharge machining is a controlled process. Here’s the magic: It employs electrical discharges to remove material from a workpiece. The entire process revolves around passing an electric current between an electrode and the workpiece. These controlled sparks work to remove minuscule amounts of material to reveal the intricate designs or shapes.

Why Choose MWI for Your EDM Needs?

Electrodes are essential in Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM). An electrode, which can take the form of either a wire (wire EDM) or a machined shape (sinker EDM), serves as the medium through which electrical discharges occur. This electrical activity, occurring in a controlled environment, is the core of the EDM process.

The EDM process requires dielectric fluid which not only helps in the electrical discharge process but also cools the area, helping to prevent thermal damage or deformation to the workpiece and the electrode.

One of the benefits of EDM is its ability to deliver extreme accuracy and fine surface finishes, making it a preferred machining method for intricate components. However, this precision hinges on the use of electrode material that can stand up to the electrical and thermal demands of EDM. It’s imperative that these electrodes resist deformation and wear, maintaining their shape and integrity throughout the process, to ensure the highest attainable level of accuracy and the smoothest possible finish on the machined part.

Opting for MWI as your EDM solution means selecting our wealth of expertise, extensive experience, quality of EDM materials, exceptional customer service, and competitive pricing.

Our Wide Range of EDM Consumable Offerings:

  • EDM Graphite: Graphite is an incredibly versatile electrode material with remarkable properties such as high thermal conductivity and unparalleled resistance to heat and electricity. We provide graphite grades comparable to POCO™ graphite from Entegris, all at a competitive price. Our extensive range includes graphite material in various stock shapes, precision ground blanks and machined electrodes.
  • Machined Electrodes: We design and create custom electrodes uniquely tailored to meet your exact needs, from a variety of materials, such as, graphite, copper tungsten, and graphite and to silver tungsten. Our team of experts will work closely with you to create the perfect tooling for your application. We also offer a variety of in-stock electrodes, ready for immediate shipping.
  • EDM Wire: Wire EDM machines have become an indispensable tool for manufacturers across various applications. This exceptional process is adept at crafting intricate and delicate components, surpassing the limitations of alternative machining methods. Its cost-effectiveness makes it an ideal choice for low quantity projects and offers significant advantages in prototype manufacturing.
  • EDM Metallics: We offer an array of electrode materials, including brass, copper, tungsten, copper tungsten, silver tungsten, tungsten carbide, and Telco (tellurium copper). Whether you prefer us to machine these materials for you or tackle the job yourself, we’ve got you covered to meet your specific needs!
  • EDM Accessories: From filters and fluids, we have the EDM accessories you need for your projects. These accessories are designed with functionality, quality, and reliability in mind. Specific types of accessories we offer include tapping electrodes, resin, and Westhoff Drills.

EDM Supplies From MWI

At MWI, we are fully prepared to be your dedicated EDM consumables supplier. We are proud to offer a comprehensive range of EDM supplies, from graphite electrodes and machined electrodes to EDM wire and EDM accessories.