As part of the Avantus Group, led by Avantus Aerospace, at Fastener Innovation Technology, Inc. we offer aerospace and defense customers around the world a range of specialty fastener manufacturing capabilities, including electrical discharge machining.

Most subtractive manufacturing processes require some kind of mechanical force to reshape a workpiece. This can lead to altered physical characteristics which can often only be tested when subjected to metallurgical testing. EDM, or electrical discharge machining, also known as spark or wire erosion, or die  sinking, utilizes thermal energy to remove material.

EDM
EDM metal cutting has been deployed by the aerospace and defense industries for decades. However, improvements in the process mean that EDM metal cutting now offers highly repeatable and accurate machining, making it a preferred choice in the production of highly complex or hard to reach workpiece areas, such as sharp internal corners or when working in a deep cavity.

EDM metal cutting utilizes electrical sparks to make cuts in metal. Two electrodes immersed in dielectric fluids create sparks, or current discharge, which vaporize the metal, leaving an incision. Because the process happens while submersed in dielectric fluid, the fluid then carries the extracted metal away, leaving minimal residue.

EDM metal cutting services
At FIT, we continually invest in innovation and technology, so that we are able to offer our clients the best possible service and quality. EDM metal cutting services include wire electronic discharge machining, die sinking electronic discharge machining, and hole drilling electronic discharge machining.

Wire EDM, or wire erosion, allows for the production of extrusion dies; instead of utilizing a reverse-shape die, a fine electrically charged wire makes precise, 2D incisions into 3D parts. Die sinking EDM, also known as ram EDM, allows for the precise machining of complex recesses and cavities. Hole drilling EDM, meanwhile, is utilized to cut holes; the fact that removed material is washed away allows for additional accuracy. EDM metal cutting has many advantages; in addition to allowing for deep, precise and detailed cuts in the most complex shapes and cavities, the process leaves a high quality finish, meaning that additional deburring is not usually necessary. At FIT, we will work closely with each client to ensure that we utilize the best methods and materials to meet their needs.