Wire Cutting is a type of an electrical discharge machining. It is a thermal mass-reducing manufacturing process by using a continuously moving wire. A thin single-strand metal wire is fed through the workpiece, occasionally occurring submerged in a tank of dielectric fluid or being continuously sprayed by dielectric fluid. This process is used to cut plates that are too thick or too difficuilt to cut with other methods. The wire, which is constantly fed from a spool, is held between upper and lower guides.
SAFETY FACTORS
- Personal
--Electrical shock
- Environmental
--Disposition of used dielectric fluid --High frequency radiation
Process Characteristic
The process of wire cutting is basically utilizing a traveling wire. Wire cutting removes mateterial by rapid, controlled, repetitive spark discharges. By using a dielectric fluid you can flush removed/cut particles, control discharge, and cool wire and workpiece. This process is performed on electrically conductive workpieces and can produce complex two-dimensional shapes.
Process Schematic
A moving wire electrode travels from the supply reel through the workpiece to a take-up reel. The wire is gradually advanced between the reels to compensate for the wear that occurs at the point of cutting. A delectric fluid is supplied to the top and bottom of the workpiece. Proper gap length and desired shape are easily achieved using a numerical control system for moving the workpiece.
Workpiece Geometry
Different ways of cutting any hardened, conductive tool material include punches, dies, and stripper plates. It is possible to stack the workpieces and cut simultaneously.
Tool Wear
Tool wear is minimal because the cutting action is distributed over the entire length of the wire. The wire is reusable; however, possible wire breakage should be considered as a deterrent.
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