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EDM Machine Shop

  • Cost Effective Manufacturing Option
  • Production-Grade Repeatablity
  • Ideal for Complex, Small-Scale Designs
Quotes for 25+ Manufacturing Processes.
Wire EDM part example with its design on SmartQuote
Comprehensive
Wire EDM Services
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High-Quality
Complex Parts
Production-Grade
Repeatability
Cost Effective
Set Up & Production
EDM Machine Shop

Fathom’s EDM machine shops use the latest in wire EDM technology to deliver high-quality parts to its customers. Whether time-sensitive, highly complex, high-precision, or short production run related, Fathom will meet the requirements of your project.

6 Factors to Look for When Choosing a Quality Precision Machine Shop / /

From aerospace to the defense department, organizations and businesses around the world require precision manufacturing to complete tasks. Without precision manufacturing, operations and processes come to a grinding halt. This problem affects the productivity of businesses and organizations, as well as their bottom lines. Yet, relying on just any precision machine shop to provide the needed parts or prototypes can lead to a new series of problems. A customer may require a large quantity at a given time or have to change the specs of the order.

A customer should be sure that the machine shop they choose is able to handle the number of challenges that may arise during the machining process, and have the resources, communication, and quality control necessary to handle those challenges. If the precision machine shop can’t handle these issues, then the customer can waste valuable time and resources. Here are 6 factors to use when looking for a quality precision machine shop:

1) Offers Examples of Previous Work

Any machine shop can claim they make everything under the sun for every industry imaginable. Yet those that are proud of the quality of their work and strive to please their customers will allow a business owner to see the types of prototypes and parts that are manufactured in their shop. When a customer can look at examples of previous work, it gives them a visual representation of the craftsmanship and attention to detail that is given to every piece, even when working with large runs of 2-dimensional parts during tight deadlines. The machine shop that is chosen should be able to provide these samples on demand as well as confidently talk about the industries they specialize in.

Working with a machine shop that is knowledgeable and has experience about the items needed in a specific industry gives greater peace of mind that they can handle any task thrown their way. They have already demonstrated and honed their skills working with a wide variety of materials commonly used in the specific industry. So, the machine shop should create the precise cuts required that fit into the customer’s specifications.

2) Provides Superior Methods of Communication

Communicating specifications for parts and prototypes to the precision machine shop should always go beyond the initial order contact. Changes to the project can happen at any time. If the machine shop misses the call, the customer will have their doubts about working with the shop ever again and will share their dissatisfaction with their own clients that may prevent the machine shop from obtaining additional orders. A quality machine shop should focus on four specific aspects of customer communication:

  • Spends time to elaborate on the capabilities and knowledge the machinist offers to the customer to implement the job
  • Asking pertinent questions in regards to the project and how to maximize the job to the fullest potential so the customer receives value for their money
  • Allows the customer to select the channel of communication that best fits into their preferences
  • Provides a single point of contact who is ready to answer questions and implement changes immediately to minimize loss time and material waste

3) Allows for Project Flexibility

While a customer should look for a machine shop that is knowledgeable about crafting parts for certain industries, they should also focus on how flexible the machine shop can be for specific jobs. The customer doesn’t want to jump from one machine shop to another due to in-house limitations concerning the types of materials a machinist can work with or the types of equipment that are available for order runs. The machine shop should have the equipment, skilled machinist and experience to get the job done in the fastest time possible without compromising on quality. They should also be flexible in their abilities as they can offer different size runs from small prototype machining projects to large scale productions while working with a wide range of materials.

4) Implements Quality Control Measures

Quality is the number one concern for customers no matter what type of parts they order. They want to ensure that the precision machine shop has created the control measures to eliminate production errors at every step of the process. Yet if a machine shop is hazy about what quality control standards are used and can’t place any of their assurances in writing, customers should seek out someone else. A professional precision machine shop will be more than willing to talk about quality certifications such as AS9100 and IS0 9001 standards. They will have detailed information in writing about the equipment used to detect specification accuracy, such as coordinate measuring machines, and what their control standards are when their rejection rate begins to rise. The machine shop should be forward about their failure rate and their objectives in reducing this rate, so it meets suitable levels.

5) Investing in Equipment and Technology Advances

A quality precision machine shop is only as good as the equipment and technicians on staff. Customers should research about the types of equipment and software that are currently used to make the parts and prototypes desired, then ask the precision shop what equipment is available on the shop floor. Find out if different equipment is used during the production run, such as Wire EDM, CNC Machining and Manual Machining. This information is vital as there will be places in the process where a more hands-on approach is required for tooling prototypes. Also, the machine shop should be well versed in different software capabilities where they can make modifications to the model design upon request.

Yet it is not enough to have the equipment and software on hand and nobody capable to use it. Technicians should have a level of certification to use the software and equipment efficiently. Their knowledge of every piece of equipment they will use during production, as well as how they use quality measuring equipment, should be at a proficient level so that they do not hamper the customer’s bottom line.

6) Shares Other Machine Shop Customers’ Experiences

After checking out the machine shop capabilities, customers should speak with other people who have ordered products from the machine shop. Find out what reviews these previous customers gave on review sites. Ask if the machine shop can provide company names so a potential customer can speak directly to the previous customer. Questions to ask may include the following:

  • How long they worked with the machine shop?
  • What types of customer service was provided?
  • Did the machine shop strive to provide as much information as possible about their capabilities?
  • If there were any changes to project specifications, how was communication and modifications handled?
  • Did they experience any problems with deadlines or defects, and how were these problems handled by the machine shop?
  • Did the machine shop meet expectations and how did they try to enhance the customer’s experience?

Speaking directly to previous customers can provide further insights about a particular machine shop. They can offer their opinions on the processes the machine shop implements to please customers, and whether these processes align with the customer’s standards of quality and efficiency.

Wire EDM Machine Shop Quote Times / /

Using Fathom’s SmartQuote online platform, you can receive a quote in as little as 1 hour, usually within 24 hours. Whether you need a quote for a wire EDM job or would like to learn about another manufacturing service, Fathom is ready to help. Fathom’s wire EDM lead times are as follows:

  • Parts as fast as 6-8 days

Wire EDM Machine Shop Services Offered by Fathom / /

Fathom utilizes its single-source global network to support both low- and high- volume projects. Fathom can produce high-quality parts for its customers by leveraging both additive and advanced technologies. Contact Fathom today to get started on your wire EDM job.

Fathom offers 28 manufacturing services, including wire EDM

Additive Manufacturing

  • FDM
  • SLS
  • SLA
  • Polyjet
  • MJF
  • DMLS
  • DLS
  • STEP (Evolve)

CNC Machining

  • CNC (3 & 5 Axis)
  • CNC Lathe
  • Precision Grinding
  • Wire & Sinker EDM

Injection Molding

  • Injection Molding
  • Tooling
  • Compression Molding

Metal Cutting and Forming

  • Thermoforming
  • Sheet Metal Punching
  • Sheet Metal Cutting
  • Metal Forming
  • Laser Cutting
  • Water Jet Cutting
  • Chemical Etching
  • Welding
  • Micro Cutting

Standalone

  • Die Casting
  • Urethane Casting
  • Composite Layups
  • Extrusion
  • Post Processing & Finishing
    • Pad Printing
    • Powder Coating
    • Bead Blasting
    • Surface Grinding
    • Polishing
    • Anodize
    • Powder Coat Passivate
    • Chemfilm
    • Vacuum Metallization
    • Silkscreen
    • Plating
    • Tumbled

Wire EDM Machines Used by Fathom / /

Fathom’s global network includes over 530 machines, including mills, lathes, presses, press brakes, turret punches and additive systems. Fathom has 31 machines dedicated to EDM manufacturing; 16 are used for wire EDM, 12 for sinker EDM, and 3 for drill EDM. It is our network of state-of-the-art equipment that allows us to offer our customers a rapid turnaround.

Fathom’s manufacturing capabilities include hybridized services in addition to wire EDM. Does your highly complex project require wire EDM? Fathom can deliver. A recent case study illustrates how Fathom manufactured 20,000 parts in 27 days using 55+ tools, including water jet cutting services.:

Case Study //

Real Customers. Real Results.

A customer came to Fathom with a complex project that spanned the technologies and processes of rapid production—and needed it done fast. Fathom delivered.

20,000 Parts // Within 27 Days
55+ Tools to Injection Mold 15,000 Parts First Article in 2 Weeks
15,000

55+ Tools to Injection
Mold 15,000 Parts

First Article in 2 Weeks

3,000+ 3D Printed Parts
3,000

3,000+ 3D
Printed Parts

2,000+ Metal Fabricated Parts
2,000

2,000+ Metal
Fabricated Parts

Hybridized Services Used //

3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing—PolyJet, SLS, MJF.

DFM Analysis + CAD Mods.

CNC Machining. Laser Cutting.

Stamping. Die Cutting. Post-Opp Drilling.

24-hour Turnaround Urethane Casting.

Injection + Compression Molding.

Model Finishing. Insert Assembly.

Advanced Project Management.

Fathom’s Locations for Wire EDM / /

Fathom has 5 US-based locations that offer wire EDM, offering nationwide coverage to the entire United States. Fathom’s advanced prototyping and manufacturing services include injection molding, CNC machining, chemical etching, metal 3D printing, and more. We have provided over 200,000 quotes to leading U.S. companies and are ready to provide you with a quote today.

Wire EDM locations include:

ARIZONA
444 W. 21st St. Ste. 101
Tempe, AZ 85282
ISO 9001:2015
NIST 800-171 Compliant
ITAR

ILLINOIS
1207 Adams Drive
McHenry, IL 60051

1401 Brummel Ave
Elk Grove, IL 60007
ISO 9001:2015 Design Certified

TEXAS
1513 Sam Bass Rd
Round Rock, TX 78681
ISO 9001:2015
ISO 13485:2016

Wire EDM Specifications and Tolerances / /

Wire EDM is an efficient manufacturing process even for the hardest raw materials. Higher cutting accuracies and tighter tolerances can be achieved during wire EDM by lowering the power and speed used. Reduced power and flushing pressure results in +/- 0.0005” tolerance.

Material Thickness Tolerance Kerf Part Volume Set Up Cost Lead Time ** Notes
up to 15.750 inches thick 0.0005" 0.006" 1-200 Is Best Low 6-8 days Conductive Metals, Carbon

Wire EDM Materials List / /

Wire EDM should be used with any conductive metal such as titanium, aluminum, brass, alloys, and superalloys. Thanks to wire EDM’s accuracy, wire EDM has become a popular manufacturing method for various industries. Whether for part or prototype, Fathom has many materials suitable for wire EDM, including:

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

Wire EDM Finishing Processes / /

Wire EDM can be used to produce parts with a smooth, mirror-like finish. Some finishing may still be required to customize a part. Common finishing processes used on wire EDM parts include:

Painting

Powder coating, liquid coating, or e-coating may all be used during the painting process. During powder coating, the powder is electrostatically charged, leaving a scratch-resistant and even coat on the metal part. Liquid coating uses wet paint to coat a surface. E-coating is the process of dipping a metal part into a bath of paint where the part and paint are electrified, causing the paint to adhere to the part. Painting adds color, varnish, or ink to a part.

Transfers

The transfer process uses a heated press to apply a design to a part. Transferring can also be used to add a design that will later be engraved on the part. Transfers are used to add a label or design to a part.

Assembly

During the assembly, the smaller parts are joined together using fasteners or bonding procedures that may or may not be permanent. Assembly is used to make a larger piece from smaller units.

Drilling

Drilling involves a drill press, tapping, or milling machine. Different types of drills may be used, such as spotting or peck drills, depending on the hole that must be made. Drilling adds a round hole to a part.

Deburring

Types of deburring methods include electrochemical deburring, thermal deburring, and abrasive flow deburring. Electrochemical deburring uses an anodic metal dissolution to remove unwanted material. Thermal deburring uses a combustible gas in a pressurized chamber to deburr a part. Abrasive flow deburring uses an abrasive slurry to deburr the part. Deburring removes any raised edges or unwanted material known as burrs.

Wire EDM Machine Shop FAQs / /

Q: Does Fathom offer Wire EDM machining?

A: Yes, Fathom offers wire EDM machining.

Q: What is Wire EDM machining?

A: Wire EDM is the process of machining metal that uses a tool to discharge sparks onto metal material. The discharge melts the material, creating an accurate cut.

Q: Is Fathom ISO certified?

A: Fathom’s certifications include ISO 9001:2015, ISO 9001:2015 Design, and ISO 13485:2016. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.

Q: Is Fathom ITAR certified?

A: Yes, Fathom is ITAR certified. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.

Q: Is Fathom AS9100:2016 certified?

A: Yes, Fathom is AS9100:2016. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.

Q: Is Fathom NIST 800-171 certified?

A: Yes, Fathom’s certifications include NIST 800-171. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.

Q: How much does wire EDM cost?

A: The cost of wire EDM depends on the number of parts, raw material chosen, the complexity of design, and more. Use our SmartQuote platform to get a quote today.

Q: What does wire EDM stand for?

A: Wire EDM stands for wire electrical discharge machining.

Q: What material can be machined in EDM?

A: Copper, tungsten, bronze, carbon steel, stainless steel, and Inconel, are just a few examples of raw materials that may be used for wire EDM.

How to Get Wire EDM Quotes / /

Do you need a wire EDM quote for an upcoming project? Use Fathom’s SmartQuote application for a fast quote on any file.

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

FLORIDA
14000 N.W. 58th Court
Miami Lakes, FL 33014
305-889-3280

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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