Wire EDM Service
Internal fillets, corners, and other very small and intricate parts can be handled by wire EDM machines in a manner that is not suitable for other machining techniques.
Though the process is complex at RP Group, we have highly trained engineers to get the job done. Contact us for more information on our wire EDM services.
Certifications
ISO 9001: 2015
IATF 16949:2016
40,000+
Machined parts each month
50+
CNC machines
100+
Plastic and metal materials
What is Wire EDM?
The Basics of Wire EDM
Wire EDM machining, also known as Electrical Discharge Machining, is a type of electro-thermal production in which a thin single-strand metal wire and de-ionized water, which is used to conduct electricity, allow the wire to use heat from electrical sparks to cut through metal and prevent rust.
How Wire EDM Works
Wire EDM, also known as Electrical Discharge Machining, uses a thin single strand of wire and deionized water to pass through a piece or part. The machine is controlled by computers which controls the spooling of the wire between two guide rollers. Electric current is then used to remove conductive materials from the piece or part. This leaves behind a smooth surface which does not required any post-processing.
CNC Service Applications
Low Volume Production
RP Group offers full production-quality parts in volumes ranging from a single piece to a few thousand pieces.
Appearance Prototypes
We take pride in producing the finest appearance models and prototypes with very high detail in any material you want.
Fixtures and Gauges
We engineer fixtures and gauges to your specifications and may offer recommendations based on our in depth understanding of Geometric Dimension and Tolerancing (GD&T).
CNC Machining Materials
Metals
- Aluminum
- Brass
- Copper
- Stainless Steel
- Steel Alloy
- Magnesium
- Titanium
Plastics
- ABS
- Acetal
- CPVC
- HDPE
- LDPE
- Nylon
- PEEK
- PEI
- PET
- PMMA
- Polycarbonate
- Polypropylene
- PPSU
- PS
- PSU
- PTFE
- PVC
Finishing Options
At RP Group we can generate instant quotes for 10+ surface finishes. We can help you select the right finishes for your applications.
CNC Precision Machining Tolerances
At RP Group, we use ISO 2768 standards for CNC machining.
The length of parts that RP Group accepts depends on the machining process, with some processes accepting parts up to 48 inches in length. For larger parts, it is recommended to get in touch with RP Group's team.
It should be noted that the tolerances indicated are minimums in an optimal scenario and looser tolerances may be necessary based on the process, material selection, or part geometry.
CNC Milling
3, 4 and 5-axis machining of plastic and metal parts. Machine up to 66" in size*
CNC Turning
Tight tolerances and finishing capabilities, as fast as 2 days.
Sinker EDM
Create blind holes and complex cavities using sinker EDM machining.
Wire EDM
Cut a 2-dimensional profile out of very thick material using wire EDM
Metrology
At all four of our RP Group manufacturing locations, we have a fully equipped metrology department to ensure your part's quality compliance. Experienced engineers in fixture and gauge design from GD&T.
- Programmable
- 3D Scanning
- Fixture and gauge manufacture
Why choose RP Group for CNC Machining?
Design for Manufacture
Our experienced engineers will analyse your design and provide feedback on manufacturability and look for opportunities to reduce cost.
Communication
We are always quick to respond to questions via email, phone, web meeting or chat to ensure your project turn around is as fast as possible.
Quality Reports
All projects where 2D drawings are provided come with a dimension report before parts are shipped. CMM reports can be produced on demand at no additional charge.
Transparent Progress Reports
We provide progress and tracking information through our customer portal. Videos and photos of the parts can be confirmed before parts are shipped out.
Time to Market
We have a infinite capacity via our vetted supply chain outside our own in house capabilities so we have the flexibility to manage all projects large and small.
Full Service Manufacturing
We can offer a wide range of materials, processes, finishes and sub-components to make us your one-stop supplier for your whole project.
Wire EDM FAQs
Wire EDM works by creating a spark between the wire electrode and the workpiece, which erodes the material and creates a cut. The wire is guided along a programmed path, and the spark is generated by applying a high-voltage electrical charge to the wire.
Wire EDM can be used to machine a wide range of materials, including metals such as steel, titanium, and aluminum, as well as non-metallic materials such as ceramics and composites.
Wire EDM offers several advantages over other machining methods, including high accuracy, tight tolerances, and the ability to machine complex shapes and contours. It is also a non-contact process, which means there is no tool wear or deformation of the workpiece.
Wire EDM is commonly used in industries such as aerospace, medical, and automotive to produce parts with intricate geometries and tight tolerances. It is also used in tool and die making, as well as prototyping and small-batch production.
Several factors can affect the quality of the wire EDM cut, including the diameter and type of wire used, the power and pulse settings, the flushing system used to remove debris, and the stability and accuracy of the machine itself.