High-speed Small Hole EDM

A specialized field of electrical discharge machining. A small .010" - .118" dia. (.25mm - 3.0mm) usually hollow electrode spins about a spindle much like a drill and drill bit (EDM drill). The electrode is electrically charged by a servo-controlled generator producing the spark. Water based dielectric flushes through and around the electrode providing a controlled environment for the extremely small sparks to jump to the work-piece. The sparks erode the surface of the work-piece creating very small pockets. Eventually millions and millions of these microscopic pockets create the small hole. The size of the hole is controlled by the diameter of the electrode and the power settings. The location and depth of the holes are driven by CNC ISO codes eliminating operator error. The machines available at Xact have automatic electrode changers for efficient unattended machining.

Small Hole EDM is in many ways similar to a drilling operation but it offers the advantages of EDM. Very low machining forces make the drilling of delicate parts possible. The work-piece hardness or angle of entry have no detrimental impact on performance. Holes are virtually burr free.

Up to 14" part height possible, depending on part configuration.

Max. XY travel: X-22" & Y-14", other sizes may be available with lead time and/or large quantity orders.

Small Hole EDM Common Applications

• Hardened Machine Coolant Holes in Tool Bits; taps, end mills, and drills
• Start Holes After Heat Treating
• Broken Drill Bit & Tap Removal
• Small/Difficult Hole Placement for Conventional Drilling
• Burr Free Holes

Other Services

• Prototyping
• Reverse Engineering
• Inspection
• Laser Marking
• Wire EDM

Production Quantity

• 1 Part to 100,000+ Parts

Quality Control Certifications

• ISO 9001:2008

Quality Control Process

• CMM
• SPC
• Video

Software Used

• CADKEY
• Esprit
• PEPS Camtek
• SolidWorks