CNC wire-cutting machines operate based on the principle of high-energy-density spark discharge, which removes material through ablation. This process falls under the category of special machining and is only suitable for conductive materials. The EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) process in CNC wire-cutting involves three main stages:
First, during the cutting operation, a DC pulse voltage of 20kHz and 150V is applied between the cutting tool—typically a copper or molybdenum wire—and the workpiece. When the distance between the tool and the workpiece is reduced to about 0.01mm, the voltage breaks down the dielectric fluid, allowing a uniform spark discharge along the entire length of the wire and the workpiece. The high-energy discharge can reach temperatures exceeding 7000°C, causing the metal to vaporize instantly. The molten material is then carried away by the cutting fluid as the wire moves.
Second, the wire moves along the axial direction, usually in the vertical or Z-axis direction, enabling the machine to cut through the workpiece layer by layer.
Third, the workpiece is controlled numerically in the X and Y planes relative to the wire, ensuring precise positioning and movement.
CNC wire-cutting machines are generally divided into two types: fast wire and slow wire. Fast wire machines use molybdenum wire as the cutting tool, which moves rapidly back and forth at speeds over 10m/s. Due to the high speed, the supporting rollers must maintain high precision and durability. However, the rapid movement can lead to vibrations and uneven tension from the sparks, resulting in radial oscillations of the wire, especially in tight corners. This makes it challenging to maintain accuracy, so fast wire machines are typically used for less precise applications. The commonly used molybdenum wire diameters are 0.15mm and 0.18mm, with current capacities ranging from 3A to 6A, which slightly limits their efficiency.
In contrast, slow wire machines use precision-drawn copper wire, moving at a much slower speed of around 20mm/s. The copper wire is used only once, eliminating the risk of diameter reduction due to wear from sparking. High-precision bearings support the wire’s motion, ensuring greater accuracy. These machines often perform multiple passes in ionized water, using an advanced energy control system to improve the straightness and surface finish of the workpiece. Copper wires can be as thick as 0.3mm or more, allowing for higher current levels (over 10A), which significantly increases the material removal rate compared to fast wire systems.
Whether you're working on complex molds or high-precision components, understanding the differences between these two types of wire-cutting machines can help you choose the right one for your project.
Tag: CNC wire cutting machine, Molybdenum wire, Cutting tool, Cutting fluid, Slow wire cutting machine
Previous: What are the implementation standards for hot-rolled stainless steel light channel?
Next: The application of single chip microcomputer in EDM machine
Bench drill is a compact size of the pillar drill that is designed for drilling holes through materials including a range of woods, plastics and metals. They are suitable for smaller holes or work pieces and have moderate to high speeds. The dills always come with a belt driver that makes it possible to select different speed: High speed for wood and lower speed for metal. In order to suit different size of projects, the height and angle of bench is adjustable.
Workshop Pillar Drills,Benchtop Drill Presses,Drill Presses,Bench Pillar Drill,Bench drilling machine
AWLOP CO.,LTD , https://www.awlop.com