Machining FAQ
For more information please visit the Machining service section of our web site.
EDM Sinker
Does the electrode touch the part?
No, work piece material is removed by a shaped electrode, usually graphite or copper, which does not touch the work piece or exert any mechanical force upon it.
What are your machine capabilities?
We have several large capacity machines. The largest for length and width is 15.625" x 24.75" x 7" and the largest for height is 11.875" x 15.8" x 15.75.
EDM Wire
Can I have parts manufactured and then assembled together?
Your BTD parts can be supplied per individually or we also can provide sub-assembly and assembly service. We can also refurbish your existing assembly by manufacturing replacement parts and rebuilding to your specifications.
Can I partially machine my own part and have you provide just one process?
No problem. In fact, many of our customers utilize our wire and sinker EDM services on parts that they have machined themselves.
Do you do test cuts?
They are available upon request.
Do you re-use the wire?
No, the wire eventually breaks down and is not reusable, but we do send it to be recycled.
Does the wire touch the part?
No, the machining is done by electrical discharge "the spark". When the wire touches the part it produces a short circuit and cutting stops.
How many wire machines?
We have 6 wire EDM machines for high production capabilities. We can deliver the job from 1 part to 1,000+ parts.
How wide of a "gap" do you remove?
.004 D wire removes .0055 to .006 .008 D wire removes .0095 to .011 .010 D wire removes .0118 to .013 .012 D wire removes .0145 to .018 (The gap varies for different material)
What are the ranges of surface finishes?
Our best wire cut finish is 10 micro inches. Finishes this fine are material dependent.
What are your machine capabilities?
We have several large capacity machines. The largest for length and width is 15.625" x 24.75" x 7" and the largest for height is 11.875" x 15.8" x 15.750".
What diameter wire do you use?
.002, .004, .008, .010 and .012 diameter
What is a skim cut?
After we have rough cut the material we lower the power setting to the wire and we take another pass removing less material leaving a better finish and closer tolerance.
What is the maximum taper cut you can do?
30 degrees, 4 axes
What is the smallest EDM bore hole?
Again the answer is dependent on a number of variables. The rule of thumb answer is 0.016" diameter.
What is the smallest wire cut hole?
It depends on a number of variables, however the answer is approximately 0.018" diameter. However, with certain conditions it may be smaller.
What type of files do you accept?
We can read many file types including but not limited to DXF, DWG and IGS. We can convert almost any software file to fit our needs.
What type of finish do you have when you EDM?
With one pass we get a finish of 120RMS and with skim cuts 40 RMS.
What type of material can you EDM?
Any material that conducts electricity.
What wire sizes do you use?
Wire sizes used are between 0.002" diameter and 0.012" diameter wire.
| 
