How to Choose Between Precision Machining and Wire EDM Services
Different parts require different capabilities. At Arbiser Machine, we’re proud to offer various services to our customers in-house, including two of our most popular offerings: CNC machining services and wire EDM services.
Some parts can be made quickly and easily using one of these capabilities. Other parts call for a combination of both. Either way, we’ll always find the best and most efficient manufacturing route for your design.
Want some insight into how we make these decisions? Let’s break down how we choose the right capability (or capabilities) for your part.
When Do We Choose CNC Machining Services?
It’s no secret that we love wire EDM at Arbiser Machine, but that doesn’t mean we always use it for our customers’ parts.
Precision machining and wire EDM services each have their respective strengths and weaknesses, which we consider for every application. Typically, we assume the parts we make will require CNC machining services until we see a trigger that indicates otherwise, like a fine feature or tight tolerance.
When we go the route of conventional CNC machining services, we use a mill or a lathe. A mill leverages rotating multi-point cutting tools to remove material from a stationary workpiece. A lathe rotates material around a stationary cutting tool and is typically used to machine round parts.
When Do We Choose Wire EDM?
So, what signs do we look for to indicate that a part could benefit from wire EDM services instead of (or in addition to) CNC machining services? Here are some examples of when we’ll incorporate wire EDM into the manufacturing of your part:
Sharp corners
Parts with small internal radii or sharp corners are difficult to machine conventionally because standard precision machining cutting tools can’t always easily make those cuts.
In contrast, the wires used for wire EDM are tiny—sometimes as small as a human hair—and capable of creating the sharp corners an application requires.
Tight tolerances
Precision machining tools wear down over time, which can compromise the accuracy of parts and throw features out of tolerance.
With wire EDM, the wire is continually replenished, allowing for a fresh, accurate, and consistent cut every time.
Fine features
Small wire EDM, which has wires as small as 0.004”, can cut incredibly fine features without compromising the integrity of the cut.
We often use this capability for medical applications like hypodermic needles.
Thick parts
Precision machining tools and equipment aren’t always capable of cutting thick parts, but wire EDM can get the job done.
If the material can fit on the machine, we can cut it. Our state-of-the-art wire EDM equipment cuts materials up to 15.75” thick.
Part volume
Contrary to popular belief, wire EDM is a great capability for production parts ranging from 12 to several thousand pieces, offering incredible speed and consistency.
For one thing, our wire EDM machines run unattended, enabling fast production for high volumes. We also have the ability to stack and cut up to 50 parts at once, slashing the time spent per piece from minutes to mere seconds.
Straightness
Straightness can be challenging to achieve with traditional precision machining methods. However, our wire EDM machines can achieve perfect straightness on parts up to 15.75” tall.
Material hardness
Precision machining tools can wear down quickly when cutting hard materials like Inconel or titanium.
But wire EDM uses electrical discharge to remove material and is capable of cutting any material that can conduct electricity. We can cut materials measuring up to 60 on the Rockwell C scale. We’ve even cut a meteorite using wire EDM!
If you want to work with a manufacturer who will always choose the optimal approach to making your parts, request a quote today!