Wire EDM (electrical discharge machining) is a manufacturing method that entails feeding an electrically charged thin wire into a pre-drilled hole in a metal part. In this process, the wire erodes material to create very accurate shapes in a work piece. It is an extremely precise method used especially for hard metals such as stainless steel, tungsten and titanium. It is important that the wire material match the material of the work piece that undergoes the EDM process.

Because wire EDM machining can produce highly complex parts with great precision from hard to machine materials, many industries like aerospace can benefit from this method. Some uses for this method are the production of plastic molds, forging dies and engine parts. Some other advantages of using wire EDM are parts can be machined on a very small scale with close tolerances. Faster delivery times are also possible because the process produces burr-free parts that need no further tooling.

When searching for wire EDM services, some options to review are:

1. Find wire EDM machining services for outsourcing needs.

2. Select wire EDM tooling kits, wear parts, supplies and accessories.

3. Consider buying wire EDM equipment for your business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose wire EDM machining specialist that can meet your specific outsourcing requirements

Review all your outsourcing requirements needs carefully, because companies that specialize in EDM machining services can vary in regards to capabilities. Check to see if companies offer services for the type of material and size range you need. Be certain that if you also require other types of services like JIT delivery, rapid prototyping, low or high- volume production, CAD support, technical or design assistance, the company can accommodate all these needs.

I recommend: Wire Cut offers good capabilities that include prototype to production run of complex shapes in many materials with great precision to meet demanding requirements. VW Broaching and Adron Tool are other good sources with many capabilities for your EDM machining needs. Both companies provide wire EDM information on advantages and the process.

Buy wire EDM supplies from distributors that have a good selection of products

To keep your business running without any downtime, replacement parts, EDM tooling supplies and consumables are important. Whether you need a certain type of wire, EDM tooling kits, accessories, wear and spare parts, finding a supplier that carries exactly what you need is sometimes difficult. Choose the right vendors that have a wide assortment of quality products to meet those needs.

I recommend: Advanced CNC Technologies is a good source for EDM brass wire, wear and spare parts for many brands of EDM equipment, wire EDM tooling -Systems 3R and other supplies. EDMStore.com and Advanced EDM Supply are also distributors with a vast inventory of spare parts, supplies and accessories for different brands of EDM machinery.

Select new, used or reconditioned wire EDM equipment that fit your budget

For most companies, upgrade existing systems by buying new or used wire EDM equipment is a major decision. If your company needs a competitive edge then you have to offer customers quality service, good delivery times and better pricing. To do this, you may need better EDM systems that are faster, more accurate and can increase capabilities and profitability. You should upgrade by looking for new/used equipment that is within your budget.

I recommend: GF AgieCharmilles offers a great selection of new wire EDM systems: many different models are available. Sodick is another good source for new equipment. You can request information on pricing and financing. EDM Systems and Hycon have good inventories of used equipment.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  For wire EDM machinery, you can maximize tooling life by reconditioning.