Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (Wire EDM) Introduction


What is WEDM?
Wire electrical discharge machining, WEDM, is a specialized subset of electrical discharge machining (EDM). It employs a continuously fed, thin metallic wire (e.g., brass or molybdenum wire) as an electrode to thermally erode electrically conductive materials through controlled spark discharges.
This non-contact process enables high-precision cutting of intricate geometries and hardened materials without mechanical force.
WEDM Working Principle
1. Spark Generation: A pulsed voltage is applied between the wire electrode and the workpiece, creating repeated electrical discharges across a narrow gap filled with dielectric fluid (typically deionized water).
2. Thermal Erosion: Each discharge generates localized temperatures exceeding 8,000°C, vaporizing or melting microscopic portions of the workpiece material.
3. Continuous Process:
The wire moves axially at a controlled speed to maintain a fresh electrode surface.
Dielectric fluid flushes away eroded particles, stabilizes the spark gap, and cools the workpiece.
CNC-controlled axis movement progressively cuts the desired profile.