Improved Break-Out Detection for Small-Hole EDM
The Current EDM RT6050 features software and hardware upgrades that improve the ability to detect when the electrode breaks out of the bottom of a hole.
Quickly and precisely drilling small holes in very hard material is a strength of the electrical discharge machining (EDM) process. A long, slender electrode (0.015 inch in diameter or smaller) can penetrate tough aerospace alloys and other difficult-to-machine materials as fast as 20 inches per minute. One of the most important applications for this process is producing critical cooling holes in turbine and jet engine components. However, one persistent problem when producing these holes has been difficulty controlling the process to avoid over-drilling and striking the back wall of an internal cavity or passageway. At worst, “back-striking” can damage this wall and possibly cause a costly part to be scrapped. In any case, it slows the holemaking process and makes it less efficient.
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