Tooling, molds, stamps

Interested in highly-precise effective cutting of parts made of metal and other materials? Unfortunately, conventional mechanical machining is rather labor-intensive and not always applicable and justified. CRYSTAL performs such operations using an electrical discharge method.


Electrical discharge machining (EDM)

The technology we offer is known since the middle of the last century, however it was implemented into practice only in 1970s. Its principle is controlled destruction of a conductive material with discharges of the electric current of a specific frequency occurring between two electrodes, one of them is a tool, another is a work piece. Between them exactly, a discharge occurs in the dielectric environment. Kerosene, alcohols, mineral oils, other low molecular weight hydrocarbon liquids, and of course their water solutions are used as dielectric. Certainly, electrode tools should feature the relevant erosion resistance. Therefore, they are made of copper, aluminum, brass, wolfram, and graphite containing materials.

The processes of this machining are rather complex. They are influenced by many factors including polarity and duration of electrical impulses, a reduction period of strength properties of the processed material. Also, an electric sparkling effect definitely occurs. Due to it, this processing is called spark machining, spark eroding, wire burning, or simply erosion.

The advantages of this technology over mechanical machining are obvious. Firstly, it concerns energy demands for most operations, and secondly, possibilities of their performance. Not every part of a sophisticated configuration can be made using even the most updated multi-axis boring machine. The modern EDM machines ensure five-axis contouring machining of parts according to the contours set by the software with significant saving of source materials.

The benefits of electric discharge machining (EDM) become especially evident at making technological tooling and machining attachments: female dies, male dies, sweep gauges, stamping tools and molds with materials of increased hardness when the highest degree of accuracy possible is required. This electrophysical method may be used even for the machining of diamonds having a well-known hardness.

In addition, the EDM machines are capable of part processing to the Grade 12 surface roughness, i.e. less than a micron. Decisive, isn't it?
Possibilities of the technology make an impression. It enables such operations as cutting, punching, grinding, three-dimensional copying, etc.


EDM machines

An absolutely appropriate issue concerns parameters of work pieces. Of note, their dimensions are essential. So, a commonly used Sodick AQ325L machine can process blank parts and work pieces with dimensions of 820×600×220mm and a maximum weight to 450kg, with a machining fluid tank being 600L. The rated power input of this machine is 6kW only.

Considering the fact that the machining process is almost fully automated and requires a minimal human involvement, the value for money factor is adequately acceptable and concordant.

The CRYSTAL technical staff operating the EDM machines have a perfect qualification. Here, you can receive comprehensive competent advice and technical support in this field.