Spark erosion (sinker electrical discharge machining, cavity type EDM, volume EDM) is an electronic process to cut metal pieces.
Spark erosion is performed in sinker electronic discharge machines, which has an electrode and a workpiece that are lowered in an insulating liquid. Both the electrode and the workpiece are connected to a power supply. The electrode is moved towards the component until a short circuit (or more correctly a dielectric breakdown) appears. Electricity is led from the electrode through the isolating liquid and the component, and the electricity cuts the workpiece. The electricity pulsing, which means the power is rapidly turned on and off. This is measure in on time, when the power creates sparks, and off time, the pause between every spark.
Using spark erosion, it is possible to manufacture complex shapes which are difficult to with conventional machines. It is also possible to get very fine tolerances in very hard materials. In addition, it is possible to machine small and sensitive workpieces, workpieces that any conventional machine would break because of its tool pressure.
Spark erosion is a quite rare manufacturing process, although found in some workshops. The electrical current usually determines the end result; a if it is high, the machining is quick and done rapidly but tolerances are less accurate. On the other hand, if the current is low, the machining process is slow but with fine tolerances.
Post project to suppliers with Spark Erosion capabilities
This Qimtek member seeks the assistance of a third party supplier for production of the attached drive connection block. The client seeks quotes for either complete supply, or the square bore to be spark/wire eroded into free-issue blanks only. This is a one-off requirement, although the buyer has specified that there could be scope for the chosen supplier to build upon the relationship and assist within additional projects in future.
This manufacturing consultant is currently in need of a supplier who can assist with both the immediate - as well as ongoing - supply of the attached jig body, to be made from free-issue material. There is an immediate order to place for this enquiry, which is expected to be repeated two to three times per year in similar quantities.
An urgent requirement for the spark erosion of a free-issue aluminium manipulator has been requested. This buyer has a huge global presence, making this is a fantastic opportunity to work with a company who operate within many sectors, including construction, nuclear and oil/gas/petrochemical. Their current vendor is full and therefore, they are looking to increase their supplier base, which will lead to ongoing, similar work in addition to this initial requirement. Please quote your best lead time when submitting your quote. Because of the urgent nature of this project, should a suitable quote be found quickly, the enquiry will be awarded early.
This client, a research institute currently working for the nuclear sector, seeks a supplier who can assist in the manufacture of the attached shear.
The material required is of bespoke composition. As such, materials will be provided free-issue by the client.There is an immediate order to place for this one off requirement, with the potential for additional opportunities moving forward.
Established in 1982, T.G Precision Engineers (TGPE) is a family-run business with over 30 years’ experience in multi-disciplined manufacturing for a variety of sectors, including Energy, Automotive, Medical and Defence.
Based in Worthing, West Sussex, we’re here to help your business excel by providing you with exceptional service and the highest quality products at the most reasonable prices. Our long-standing partnerships with our clients are proof that this isn’t just a business ambition – it’s what we do.
We have always laid heavy emphasis on high quality service and competitive pricing. A policy which has carried us successfully through difficult trading years.
Our 5,110 square metre factory uses the latest technology and reliable methods to produce a comprehensive range of products quickly and efficiently from a wide selection of materials. All grades of steel are used and functional life is extended by heat treatments and material coatings.
Our sales and production teams have skills ranging from CAD design through to manufacturing methods and problem solving.
GB Engineering is an established manufacturing company based in South Cheshire with an excellent reputation for quality and innovation. Using state of the art machine tools and cutting edge software, our team of highly skilled engineers can fulfil any manufacturing or tooling requirement large or small.
Aerospace Engineers & Machinists based in Bristol.
McBraida Group, headquartered in Bristol in the UK, is an established Tier 1 strategic supplier employing 250 people supplying complex precision machined parts to OEMs such as RR, P&W, Collins Aerospace, MTU and their partners across all major aerospace and defence programmes. The family-owned Group has been operating in the UK for over 60 years and in 2012 McBraida opened its Polish manufacturing facility to offer additional capacity and capability in a low-cost economic zone.
First Components Ltd based in the West Midlands UK, is a privately owned specialist precision engineering company with processing capabilities which include CNC turning, CNC milling, presswork, laser cutting, pressbrake, wire erosion,toolmaking and CAD design.
Whilst delivering precision engineering backed by ISO 9001/2000 and QS9000 First Components Ltd have achieved world class partnerships.
Additive Manufacturing & CNC Machining based in Abingdon, Oxfordshire.
Bowman Additive Production (Bowman AP) was launched in 2016 to promote additive production as an engineering production process.
Bowman AP initially invested in an EOS Formiga P110 3d printing system for the production of it's ground-breaking "Evolution" split bearing cage technology.
Bowman AP is a part of Bowman International Limited. Established in the 1970's Bowman International has established itself as one of the leading plain bearing suppliers in the UK.
NADCAP & AS9100 Rev D accredited Machinists, UK wide
Excel Precision Gloucester, Excel Precision Birmingham and Excel Precision Leeds are part of the Excel Precision Group, the UK's leading group of EDM specialists providing sub-contractor EDM (wire and spark erosion) services to the UK's manufacturing and engineering industries.
AXI Engineering was born from our passion for engineering, We offer our premium CNC machining capabilities to several different major sectors of the industry in the UK.
With a background consisting of General Machining, Automation and Fabricating/Welding, we are well adapted to meeting our customers needs.
ISO 9001 Approved Engineering & Manufacturing Company, Hampshire.
The company was formed in 2007, with over 40 years of engineering experienceand it's base is close to Portsmouth, Hampshire. One of Blue Tec's great strengths has been the ability to diversify and change product type, depending on market trends. It was this strategy which led Blue Tec Ltd into the current industry.
Ultra Precision is one of East Anglia's largest Precision Engineering companies. We can offer a complete service including advice, development and prototyping. Our precision CNC milling, CNC turning and CNC machining skills have ensured Ultra Precision has enjoyed a reputation for innovative engineering excellence since it was founded in 1961.