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EDM Network Inc. introduced its new Fast Wire EDM at AM2021 in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Fast Wire EDM was developed to rapidly remove 3D printed metal parts from the build plate by using a small .007" diameter molybdenum wire cutting a .008" wide kerf. This narrow kerf enables the EDM to cut about .010" away from the build plate, which reduces the cost of the additional support material needed by traditional saws.

According to EDM Network Inc., its Fast Wire EDMs are different from traditional brass wire EDMs because they are not flush dependent and do not need Thread Cutting Insert auxiliary flush lines or submerged cutting. In the interrupted cuts on a tall build plate, the Fast Wire EDMs will not break the wire because the molybdenum wire has very high tensile strength, and the water additive that is used causes the water to adhere to the fast moving wire, enabling the water to pull the swarf (chips) out of the cut zone. Cut speeds of two to three times faster than traditional wire EDMs are reportedly achievable.

In addition, the wire path can be programmed to follow the support structure and remove support material in the cut off process – RCMT Insert rather than taking a straight cut along the face of the build plate – which saves time on the secondary machining process.

The Fast Wire EDMs are available in three models to handle build plates of 410 mm, 625 mm and 1050 mm high.