Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] using EDM die for punching

ackermanpens wrote:

> I have an EDM die that was used to cut small stainless steel parts (1"
> x 0.25") using EDM wire. I'd like to modify the die to use for
> punching the same size and shape parts from sheet steel. Someone told
> me this could be done with little trouble - is that true? Thx - CKA
>

I'm a little confused by your description. An EDM "die" might not be
very hard at all, and so might not make a functional punch.
A part can be made by wire EDM, or sinker EDM, but I don't see how a
"punch" could cut parts by "using EDM wire".

Of course, to use a punch, you need a matching die, which will have a
hole matching the punch and about .006" larger.
You will also need a punch press. I have a foot-operated 5-ton press
that could easily drive a 1 x .25" punch in relatively thin
sheet steel.

If this is actually an EDM electrode, and you want to use it to EDM soft
steel instead of stainless, then you need a sinker EDM machine.
The electrode would likely not need to be modified at all, unless you
are making parts to .001" tolerance.

Jon