Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: EDM machine

In a message dated 10/30/00 10:11:18 PM Hawaiian Standard Time,
chyde@... writes:

<< However, my current interest is in EDM which doesn't seem to be a topic at
present,
has this area already been exhausted?

I am currently building the HSM Robert Langlois version of a spark erosion
m/c and would dearly love to hear from anyone that has improved upon this
design. In particular, in relation to the type of capacitors used (I'm using
conventional electros but feel paper would be better if available) and also
in relation to the
use of fast switching (using power MOSFETS) to improve performance and
reduce the capacitance values required.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.


Chris Hyde,
Melbourne, Australia

>>

Chris,
I built the same EDM power supply you talk of. I never did build the
stepper side of it. I like Jon E. use a rotating , insulated tube or brazing
rod as an electrode. I then run this in my Bridgeport spindle with a
comutator type setup. I gotta agree that the mystery in the commercial units
is exactly what they do to reduce the "flash" but get respectable cutting
rates. I agree, the capacitor charge time must be reduced, and the
capacitance values need to be lower as the existing setup can blow holes
through thin stock. Run at 400 hz or something? I'm NOT an electronics guy.

Peter
THRD, Inc.