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Sinker EDM Machining
Cut Complex Cavities in Tough Metals

Sinker EDM machining can be used to make complex-shaped cavities in the workpiece, such as tapered holes, sharp inside corners and deep splines. Its high level of precision and speed make it a preferred technology to produce molds, dies and other types of tooling.

What is Sinker EDM Machining?

Sinker EDM, also referred to as die sinking, is a specialized form of machining that is used to create blind pockets, where a hole doesn’t go all the way through a block of metal. An electrode, formed in the desired shape of the cavity to be created, is slowly lowered (or sunk) into the workpiece that is immersed in a dielectric fluid. As the electrode comes close to the surface of the metal, sparks are generated that melt the material. It creates a cavity in the exact shape of the electrode.

Sinker EDM machining can be used to process tough materials like titanium, stainless steel, aluminum and heat-treated tool steels. The hardness of the material doesn’t affect the ability of the electrode to remove material. This specialized form of EDM machining is used to create parts for discerning industries like medical, aerospace and power generation.

Ram/Sinker EDM Specifications

Machine travel lengths:

RAM/SINKER EDM X Y Z
CHARMILLES FORM 20 13.8″ 9.85″ 9.85″
MITSUBISHI EA12S SINKER 15.7″ 11.8″ 11.8″

Why Choose Sinker EDM Machining?

3D Capabilities

Sinker EDM is able to create 3D parts and pieces. This allows for the creation of a wider range of prototypes and models.

More Complex

Sinker EDM services are also preferred for products that feature complex geometries. The electrode never touches the materials, so there is no contact damage.

No Pre-Drilling Needed

This type of machining does not require any pre-drilled holes.

Highly Accurate

The parts created using this type of EDM are very accurate and intricate. Instead of cutting, the electrodes are used to slowly erode the metal until it has the desired shape.

Little Heat Damage

There is very little heat generated by sinker EDM manufacturing, leaving the final piece free of heat damage. Melted materials are removed via the dielectric fluid the metal is bathed in.

Hole Damage Repair

Sinker EDM has the ability to repair and clean damaged interior/exterior walls without affecting geometric position.

Fathom’s Locations
for Sinker EDM Services

Arizona //
444 W. 21st Street Suite 101
Tempe, AZ 85282

Texas //
1513 Sam Bass Road
Round Rock, TX 78681

Illinois //
1207 Adams Drive
McHenry, IL 60051

1401 Brummel Avenue
Elk Grove, IL 60007

Available Materials for Sinker EDM Machining

This form of cutting can be used with any conductive metal, including titanium, aluminum, brass, alloys and superalloys. including:

  • Copper
  • Tungsten
  • Bronze
  • Carbon steel
  • Inconel
  • Stainless steel
  • Hastelloy
  • Kovar
  • Titanium
  • Carbon graphite
  • High alloy steel

Why Choose Fathom’s Sinker EDM Services?

Accelerate Your Project with our Sinker EDM Services

Fathom is one of the most experienced sources for wire EDM cutting, including sinker EDM machining.

Our Tempe facility has unmatched expertise in this technology. It has been making parts using sinker EDM machining for over two decades for a variety of industries.

Our sinker EDM services are part of Fathom’s commitment to helping you solve your complex machining challenges. Tough materials? Complex geometries? Tight tolerances? No problem!

Across National
Time Zones

Precision manufacturing
from coast to coast.

HEADQUARTERS //
1050 Walnut Ridge Drive
Hartland, WI 53029
877-328-4668

ARIZONA
444 W. 21st St. Ste. 101
Tempe, AZ 85282
480-966-2300

CALIFORNIA
46758 Lakeview Blvd
Fremont, CA 94538

COLORADO
7770 Washington St.
Denver, CO 80229
303-288-6855

ILLINOIS
1207 Adams Drive
McHenry, IL 60051
815-385-7500

1401 Brummel Ave
Elk Grove, IL 60007
847-952-8088

MINNESOTA
13758 Johnson Street NE
Ham Lake, MN 55304
763-755-7575

NEW YORK
1920 Slaterville Rd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-277-7070

401 W. Shore Blvd.
Newark, NY 14513
315-331-7680

TEXAS
1513 Sam Bass Rd.
Round Rock, TX 78660
512-255-1477

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