Our business is one that works to provide a wide array of metals in various forms for clients. These particular items are essential for countless applications. As such, we make sure they are readily available. In addition, we can help with services like wire erosion, polishing, and more. That means you can get even more value from working with us.
Have you heard all the rumours about the EDM process? There is a myth that says this form of cutting is slow. It says it is only good for complex components that cannot easily be made another way. In addition, it says it is only useful for one off projects.
The process may be great for these situations, but it is not quite that restrictive. In truth, it is an extremely versatile option. It is one that comes in handy for all kinds of needs. That includes making production parts and many medical applications. In this post, we want to discuss the reasons for using it for both.
Attendance is not mandatory
We will begin with production parts. One reason why you can use the process here is that you can have unattended runs. Any manufacturing strategy with the potential to run lights-out is worth a look for high volume applications.
Wire erosion machines have the ability to function 24/7 without human intervention. As a result, it permits quick production. Even in the event the wire breaks, the machine is automatically going to remove it from the part. It will then replace it with a new one so that operations can continue seamlessly.
Simultaneous cutting
A second reason to use it is that you can cut many components simultaneously. It is possible to set up machinery to cut tens of parts at once. This considerably lowers the time it takes on every piece from minutes to seconds. Think about cutting 20 components in one stack. Then, think about having 100 stacks set up in your machine to function autonomously. You will cut 2,000 components without extra labour costs.
Tooling replenishes frequently
Another reason why you should use wire erosion is that it replenishes tooling on a regular basis. Precision machining tools gradually wear down. Those in charge might not replace them often, lowering part consistency. The wires in erosion mechanisms rapidly wear down. Initially, this could seem like a disadvantage. Yet, it is actually the opposite. Since things wear down quickly, the wires in the machines replenish very regularly. So, you receive the freshest cuts to ensure exceptional consistency.
Fewer secondary operations
The final reason to use wire erosion for production parts is that it lowers secondary operations. The process generates components with very smooth surface finishes. So, it is rarely necessary to do anything else. No longer needing to grind or polish parts can lead to large differences in lead times and costs.
Medical applications
Now, we will move on to the reasons why you should use the cutting method for medical applications. When manufacturing items here, it is vital to machine each feature perfectly. You cannot obtain the quality for clinical and hospital environments if you fail to do that.
Material capability
One of the main benefits is you can use wire erosion to cut titanium and stainless steel. Both are popular for medical use. Unlike precision machining, material hardness is not an issue here. It is even possible to cut hardened materials. As long as the substance can conduct electricity, you can use this type of cutting.
Complex features and shapes
Another reason why the process is useful is that you can create complex features and shapes, even fine details. It is nearly impossible to cut these conventionally. Wire erosion can achieve the intricate features, shapes and detail for many items. It can do so thanks to an ability to cut on various planes. Plus, it can do it without much post processing too.
Long holes
The cutting can also offer a big advantage when items need holes. You may be manufacturing a port that needs a non-standard tunnel to run through it, or a syringe. In these cases, you will require a technique that can generate precise, long holes. For such a hard task, this is the answer.
Start talking to us if you need wire erosion services
At Brindley Metals, we give customers the very best materials and reliable services. You can expect quality, precision, and a great experience when you work with us. So, if you would like to know more about what we do, feel free to contact us.