High-Quality
Wire & Sinker EDM Parts
Parts in days anywhere in the USA.
Our Wire & Sinker EDM services offer:
- Repeatability
- High Dimensional Tolerances
- Custom Prototypes and End-Use Parts
Quality Matters | AS9100D Certified, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485:2016, & ITAR Registered
* Not all locations have all certifications and registrations. Parts requiring these will be made at facilities with the correct certifications and registrations.
Table of Contents
What is Wire and Sinker EDM?
Wire and sinker electrical discharge machines (EDM) are two machining processes commonly used to cut complex shapes and patterns into hard metals. Wire EDM uses a thin metal wire to create the cuts, while Sinker EDM uses an electrode shaped like the desired cut. In both processes, an electrical discharge is passed between the metal being cut and the cutting tool, causing the metal to erode in small particles. This process allows for precise cuts and intricate shapes that would be difficult or impossible to create with traditional machining. Wire EDM is often used for cutting thin or delicate parts, while Sinker EDM is commonly used for creating molds or dies for manufacturing. Both methods are used extensively in aerospace, automotive, medical devices, and precision engineering industries.
How does Wire and Sinker EDM work?
Wire EDM
Wire EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) is a machining process that utilizes electrical energy to cut through hard materials precisely. It involves a thin, electrically charged wire that creates precise cuts through electrically conductive materials like metals. During the process, an electrical discharge is applied to the wire, creating a spark that melts the workpiece’s surface. A dielectric fluid then flushes away the melted material and circulates the cutting area. The wire electrode continuously moves while electrical discharges are made, creating a path forming the shape of the desired final product. Its high precision and accuracy make Wire EDM ideal for aerospace, medical, and automotive applications, where tight tolerances are required.
Sinker EDM
Sinker EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) is a manufacturing process where a shaped electrode (typically made of graphite or copper) and a workpiece are submerged in an electrically conductive fluid, and a controlled electrical charge is passed between the two. As the electrode approaches the workpiece, sparks are created, melting the material on the workpiece’s surface. The fluid flushes away this melted material, and the electrode then contours the shape of the design. This process is repeated to create the required form.
The electrical charge used is very high, but it only lasts briefly. The process requires precise control because the electric bill can cause damage to the workpiece, and the process must be repeated to achieve the required shape. Sinker EDM creates tools, dies, and molds for the automotive, aeronautical, and medical industries.
What is the difference between Wire & Sinker EDM?
Wire EDM and sinker EDM are two different types of Electrical Discharge Machining processes. The main difference is that wire EDM uses a thin wire as the electrode to cut through the workpiece, while sinker EDM uses a shaped electrode to create the desired shape in the workpiece. Wire EDM is typically used for cutting intricate shapes or parts with tight tolerances, while sinker EDM is better suited for creating deeper cavities and shapes in larger workpieces. Another key difference is that wire EDM keeps a constant gap between the electrode and workpiece, while sinker EDM submerges the electrode in dielectric fluid to cool and flush away debris. Both processes have their own advantages and limitations, and the choice between them depends on the specific requirements of the job at hand.
EDM at Prototek
OEM:
Fanuc and Sodick
Lead Time:
5 – 22 Days
Max Dimensions:
31.5 x 23.6 x 31.5 in thick
Material:
Aluminum, Inconel, Stainless Steel and Steel, Titanium, and Other Materials
Prototek's Materials
In the competitive manufacturing industry, high-quality materials are crucial for achieving optimal precision and accuracy in wire and sinker EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining). Prototek offers a wide selection of materials, such as brass, copper, and tungsten carbide, known for delivering precise cuts and shapes in complex parts. Brass and copper are popular for their exceptional electrical conductivity, making them ideal conductors for EDM. They are also resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring the longevity of the parts made from these materials. Tungsten carbide is renowned for handling demanding machining applications, especially those requiring high accuracy and precision. Its unmatched hardness and durability make it extremely popular in the aerospace, mold, die-making, and toolmaking industries. With Prototek’s vast array of quality EDM materials, our customers can consistently achieve the highest performance and accuracy in their machining processes.
Wire & Sinker EDM Finishes
Wire and sinker EDM are two popular methods for precise cuts and finishes on metal parts. Wire EDM uses a thin wire that carries an electrical current to burn through the material and create a cut or shape. This process is ideal for intricate designs where accuracy is crucial. On the other hand, Sinker EDM involves an electrode that is lowered into a bath of dielectric fluid to create an electrical current that erodes the material. This process produces highly polished surfaces, particularly on parts with complex shapes or tricky angles. Both wire and sinker EDM produce high-quality results but have unique strengths and weaknesses. Depending on the specific needs of a project and the desired finish, wire or sinker EDM may be the ideal choice for achieving the perfect result.
Why choose Prototek for your wire and sinker EDM project?
Prototek is a trusted and reliable wire and sinker EDM service provider that delivers high-quality results. Our experienced technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and tools to create precise cuts, ensuring the end product meets the required specifications. We also offer a quick turnaround time, which allows you to stay on schedule and complete projects on time. Prototek understands that each project is unique and offers customized solutions that meet your needs, whether a prototype or low to high-volume production. Our team is dedicated to meeting your requirements and providing exceptional customer service. Prototek’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes them the top choice for your project.