What is Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) machine for plastic?

The EDM machine for plastic molds (Electrical Discharge Machining) is an essential tool in the manufacturing of high-precision molds. This process is particularly useful when machining complex geometries, deep cavities, or extremely hard materials, where conventional milling methods fall short.

The EDM principle works by eroding material through controlled electrical discharges between an electrode and the workpiece, both submerged in a dielectric fluid. Through thousands of tiny sparks, the machine removes material with extreme precision and without physical contact. This allows for extremely tight tolerances, making it ideal for injection mold manufacturing, where every detail impacts the final quality of the molded plastic parts.

In the context of EDM in plastic molds, this technology is used to create mold cavities and shape fine details such as engravings, logos, internal ribs, or hard-to-reach areas. Thanks to its micrometric precision, it achieves a perfectly defined surface and geometry that stays true to the original design, enhancing mold performance and reducing premature wear.

There are two main types of EDM machines: sinker EDM (also called cavity EDM) and wire EDM. For a plastic mold EDM machine, the sinker type is most common, as it enables the creation of complex cavities required for injection molding. Electrodes made of copper or graphite are shaped in the negative form of the desired mold cavity.

A key advantage of EDM is that it can machine hardened or heat-treated steels, which are often used in injection mold manufacturing for their durability in high-volume production. Also, since there’s no direct contact, the risk of material distortion or internal stress is minimized — critical factors when aiming for long mold life.

The use of EDM in plastic molds is especially valuable for reproducing very small details without affecting other mold areas. It’s ideal for combining aesthetic and functional features in one part or for achieving specific surface finishes. In fact, EDM is often the final step in mold production, defining the last microns of the contour with high precision.

At companies like Plásticos Lezo, where precision and quality are a priority, the use of EDM machines for plastic molds is an integral part of their mold manufacturing process. This ensures that each mold meets customer specifications and can produce high-quality plastic parts with outstanding durability and repeatability.

In summary, the EDM machine for plastic molds is an advanced tool that allows manufacturers to achieve a level of detail and precision that other technologies can’t match. Its role in injection mold manufacturing ensures consistent results, longer mold life, and the ability to meet complex design requirements. With EDM in plastic molds, even the most demanding industrial specifications can be fulfilled.