What is Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)?

Electrical Discharge Machining, commonly known as EDM, is a manufacturing process that removes material from a workpiece using electrical sparks generated between two electrodes — an anode and a cathode.

These electrical sparks generate extremely high temperatures, which melt or vaporize the material, allowing for precise shaping of the workpiece.

Because the sparks occur in rapid succession and affect only very small areas, EDM is particularly suitable for high-precision machining.

As a result, EDM is widely used in applications requiring fine detail and accuracy, such as micro-drilling (super drill) and wire cutting processes.

Mold manufacturing, where consistent replication of parts is critical, heavily relies on EDM due to its precision capabilities.

Key Features of EDM

1. Can machine even hard and tough materials thanks to the high heat generated during discharge.
2. Compatible with CNC systems, enabling automated and programmable operations.
3. Excellent for precision and complex shapes, making it ideal for intricate molds or components.
4. Minimal deformation of the base material, unlike some other machining methods.

Disadvantages of EDM

Despite its advantages, EDM also has some limitations:

1. Requires a specially prepared electrode for each machining job.
2. Limited choice of electrode materials, which can impact process flexibility.
3. Potential risk of fire, which is a critical safety concern.

Among these drawbacks, fire risk is the most serious and should never be overlooked.

In fact, it’s quite rare to find an EDM-specialized facility that hasn’t experienced a fire incident at least once.

Why Does Fire Risk Occur in EDM?

The fire risk associated with EDM arises from two primary causes:

1. The flammability of EDM fluids, especially when traditional oils like diesel or kerosene are used.
2. Starting the machining process before EDM fluid is properly filled, leaving sparks exposed to open air.

EDM fluids serve several essential purposes:

• Cooling the machining area
• Insulating the electrodes
• Flushing away machining debris (chips)
• Enhancing overall precision and stability of the process

In the past, diesel or kerosene was commonly used due to its low cost and resistance to high heat. However, considering that the spark temperatures during EDM can reach 8,000 to 12,000°C, these traditional fluids can pose significant fire hazards.

Importance of High-Quality EDM Fluids

Due to the extreme heat and potential ignition from electrical sparks, modern EDM fluids must have high flash points and low volatility to prevent fires.

In addition, they must:

• Provide excellent cooling and insulation
• Effectively flush out chips
• Contribute to improved machining precision

Dyna’s EDM Fluid – Product Overview

At Dynasolution, we have over 30 years of experience in manufacturing and supplying high-quality EDM fluids.

Key Features of Our EDM Fluids:

1. Highly refined, colorless, and odorless, ensuring a cleaner working environment.
2. Low-viscosity with outstanding thermal stability, suitable for extended operations.
3. High dielectric strength, enabling ultra-precise machining with minimal electrode gap.
4. No residue formation during heat treatment, resulting in excellent cleanability.
5. Special additive formulation prevents soot and odors, keeping the workspace clean and pleasant.
6. Non-irritating to skin, reducing the risk of dermatitis or other skin damage for operators.
7. Low viscosity and high flash point provide excellent operational safety.
8. Higher flash point than conventional petroleum-based oils, reducing fire risk and cutting consumption by over 70%.

For any inquiries about EDM fluids, feel free to contact Dyna Co., Ltd.
We are committed to delivering the best quality and value to our customers.

Dyna Co., Ltd.
Industrial Lubricant Solution
E-Mail : dyna@dynachem.co.kr
Web : dyna.co.kr/en/