How the process fits the part
Wire EDM develops a contour along a wire path; die-sinking EDM uses an electrode shaped for the required cavity or feature. Neither is a universal replacement for milling. Select the route by access, feature geometry and material condition, and ask the machining partner to confirm the practical setup.
Design decisions before manufacture
Identify the feature that requires EDM and how it connects to the remaining machined geometry. Wire access may require a starting arrangement, while a cavity route needs an electrode and a reviewed finishing strategy. Discuss corner geometry and any surface-integrity requirement before treating the CAD model as a manufacturing instruction.
Inspect the finished result
Check the critical contour or cavity against the intended datums. Agree which surfaces need a particular finish and any further treatment. A detailed shape still needs to align with the rest of the component. For tooling or a highly loaded interface, arrange the necessary specialist review of the final surface and material state.
What to send for a quotation
Send the material and condition, feature views, quantity, important tolerances and the purpose of the geometry. Explain which parts are already machined and which are included in the package. QDM can review the mechanical interfaces and coordinate a specialist EDM work package when it suits the agreed design.
What to define for the project.
| Decision | What to define | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Electrically conductive grade | Checks basic suitability |
| EDM route | Wire contour or electrode cavity | Depends on geometry |
| Access | Wire start or electrode approach | Determines a practical setup |
| Surface | Required final condition | May require additional work |
| Datum | Relationship to other features | Controls the assembled fit |
These notes support an initial engineering discussion. Material grades, manufacturing routes, dimensions and acceptance criteria are selected for the actual application and confirmed in the project specification.
Discuss the engineering scope
Choose the service that matches the next stage of your part, device or machine project.