All machines from the category EDM / Eroding

How an EDM machine works

The EDM machine, also known as a spark erosion machine, is a machine tool for precision metalworking in which material is removed by electrical discharges. This process, known as electroerosion or spark erosion, is particularly suitable for machining extremely hard or difficult-to-machine materials such as hardened steel, carbide, or titanium. The EDM machine is used wherever conventional machining processes such as milling or turning reach their limits – especially by manufacturers of complex shapes and fine contours.

Spark erosion machining is carried out using a tool – usually made of copper or graphite – which serves as an electrode. This is positioned in a dielectric medium (e.g., oil or deionized water) at very small distances from the workpiece. Targeted, repeated electrical discharges create an electric arc between the workpiece and the electrode. This discharges in microseconds and generates high temperatures that remove tiny particles from the workpiece. The material vaporizes locally or is melted and then washed away by the dielectric medium.

Advantages of an EDM machine

The great advantage of the EDM machine lies in its ability to produce even the most complex geometries with the highest precision and without applying mechanical force to the workpiece. This makes it an indispensable tool in modern tool and mold making as well as in aerospace technology.

Structure of an EDM machine

The heart of the machine is the machine base with the work table on which the workpiece is mounted. The electrode or wire is guided by an electrode holder or wire feed system. Precise positioning is ensured by a Control with high-precision axis drives. The dielectric system comprises a tank, filter, and pump for flushing and cooling. In addition, there is the generator module, which generates the electrical impulses. Wire EDM machines also have integrated wire guide systems and automatic wire changers. A control panel with a software interface allows the machining programs to be entered and controlled.

Applications in industrial manufacturing

CNC EDM machines are indispensable in many high-tech industries, especially where high precision and complex geometries are required. Typical areas of application include tool and mold making, precision tool manufacturing, aerospace technology, the automotive industry, mechanical engineering, medical technology, and the watch and jewelry industry.

Erosion machines can be used to manufacture the following workpieces, among others:

• Injection molds
• Precision tools/indexable inserts
• Cutting punches
• Drawing tools
• Turbine blades
• Threaded inserts
• Micro holes
• Precision gears
• Implant parts
• Injection nozzles
• High-precision guides

Thanks to contactless machining by electrical discharge, even sensitive or hardened materials can be processed with maximum dimensional accuracy and surface quality – ideal for individual parts and small series with the highest quality requirements.

Types of EDM machines

There are two main types of EDM machines: the Die-sinking EDM machine and the Wire EDM machine. In die-sinking EDM, the electrode is shaped three-dimensionally and lowered into the workpiece. Wire EDM, on the other hand, uses a thin wire as the electrode, which is continuously guided through the workpiece – ideal for filigree contours and breakthroughs.

Mini EDM machine

A mini EDM machine is a compact version of an EDM machine that is specially designed for small, precise workpieces or for fine reworking (e.g., on molds, tools, or fine components). It works on the same principle as larger eroding systems – i.e., material removal by electrical discharge (spark erosion) – but is smaller, lighter, more precise, and more energy-efficient.

Key features

• Uses spark erosion to machine conductive material (metal, graphite, etc.) without mechanical contact
• Is significantly smaller (some are tabletop or laboratory machines)
• Offers very fine resolution and precision in the micrometer range
• is suitable for small electrodes, thin wires, and the finest machining details,
• is often used for prototyping, repairs, or small series production.

Advantages over large machines

• More cost-effective to purchase and operate (often < €100,000)
• Compact design – ideal for laboratories, toolmaking departments, small workshops
• High precision with very low tolerances
• Lower energy consumption and less electrode wear
• Easy to transport and operate

Limitations

• Limited workpiece size and weight (often only a few centimeters or grams)
• Slow machining speed for larger surfaces
• Not suitable for series production of large components

Typical machine categories are:

• Mini die-sinking EDM machines – for microforms, engravings, or small cavities
• Mini wire EDM machines – for filigree contours or micro parts
• Micro EDM machines – high-end variants with laser-like precision (µ-EDM).

Mobile EDM machine

A mobile EDM machine (also known as a mobile spark erosion machine or portable EDM) is a portable device that has been specially developed for repair and maintenance work directly on the machine or workpiece.

Key features

• Portable or mounted on casters – weight often less than 50 kg, sometimes as handy as a welding machine.
• Brought to the workpiece on site, not vice versa.
• Usually works with spark erosion in a sinking process, i.e., without mechanical contact.
• Removes broken drilling tools (drills, taps, reamers, bolts) or repairs molds and dies.
• Does not require a special machine base or complex setup.

Typical areas of application

• Maintenance and tool repair directly on machines, presses, casting molds, injection molding tools
• Removal of broken taps or pins from expensive workpieces
• Post-processing in inaccessible areas (e.g., in machine frames or toolboxes)
• On-site repairs in production, on construction sites, or at large facilities

Advantages

• High mobility: no removal or transport of the workpiece necessary
• Fast repair times, less production downtime
• Easy to operate – many models run on standard power (230 V)
• Cost-efficient: devices available for approx. €5,000–15,000

Mobile eroding machines and mini eroding machines are often confused, but they are designed for different purposes. Both are compact, but they differ significantly in terms of application, power, and mobility.

Tools for an EDM machine

CNC EDM machines use specialized tools that function as electrodes. Typical examples are:

• Graphite electrodes
• Copper electrodes
• Copper-tungsten electrodes
• Brass wires
• Zinc-coated wires
• Molybdenum wires
• Ceramic wire guides
• Clamping devices for electrodes
• Wire electrodes for fine cutting
• Hollow drill electrodes for pilot holes

These tools enable precise material removal through controlled electrical discharges and are selected according to requirements in terms of shape, material, and diameter.

Accessories and operating materials for an EDM machine

Operating an EDM machine requires a suitable dielectric medium such as EDM oil or deionized water, filter systems for cleaning the liquid, clamping systems for the workpiece and electrode (EDM machine clamping system), and wire supplies for wire EDM machines. Other important accessories include electrode holders, wire guides, cooling and flushing devices, and, if necessary, automation units for workpiece handling. Software updates and CAD/CAM interfaces are also essential for the efficient programming and machining of complex geometries.

Leading manufacturers of EDM machines

Our manufacturers directory includes companies that produce EDM machines for metalworking.

The following terms are frequently searched for: Accutex EDM machine, Ageltech EDM machine, Agie EDM machine, Charmilles EDM machine, Exeron EDM machine, GF EDM machine, Knuth EDM machine, Mitsubishi EDM machine, ONA EDM machine, Sodick EDM machine, Makino EDM machine, OPS-Ingersoll EDM machine, Vollmer EDM machine, Walter EDM machine, Zimmer & Kreim EDM machine

Selecting the right EDM machine

If you want to buy an EDM machine, there are several important features and specifications to consider.

• First, machining accuracy is a key criterion—both in terms of dimensional tolerances and surface finish.
• The maximum workpiece size and the travel distances of the axes determine which parts can be manufactured.
• The generator power also influences the machining speed and quality.
• For wire EDM machines, wire diameter, wire feed speed, and degree of automation are relevant factors.
• Another point is the control system: modern CNC systems with an intuitive user interface and CAD/CAM connection enable efficient programming.
• In addition, ease of maintenance, energy consumption, and the availability of spare parts play an important role.
• Last but not least, you should pay attention to the manufacturer's service and the possibility of remote maintenance—especially for demanding applications in tool and mold making.

Search now on maschinenauswahl.de for the EDM machine that suits your production requirements.

Purchase costs of an EDM machine

The acquisition costs for a new EDM machine (e.g., a spark erosion machine or wire EDM machine) can vary greatly, depending on factors such as technology (wire vs. sinker erosion), degree of automation, machining size, precision, brand, and equipment. Specific prices are rarely publicly disclosed. If you want to purchase a new EDM machine, you should probably expect to pay at least €150,000 to several hundred thousand euros – and possibly significantly more, depending on any special equipment.

Important influencing factors (wire EDM machine costs, wire EDM machine price)

• Machining size (X/Y/Z travel distances) and table size
• Number of axes, automation (e.g., pallet changer, magazine)
• Precision and technology (high-end machine vs. standard)
• Peripheral equipment (clamping systems, electrode changer, cooling filters, control system)
• manufacturer and scope of service
• Eligibility for subsidies and energy efficiency

Information on EDM and EDM machines

This article answers the following questions, among others, and helps with the search terms mentioned:

• What is an EDM machine?
• What is an EDM machine?
• What does an EDM machine do?
• Erosion machine explanation
• How does an EDM machine work?
• How does an EDM machine work?
• What is EDM, explained simply?
• What does the word "EDM" mean?