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Wire EDM Quotes

  • 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
Wire EDM Quotes

Fathom uses 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.

Why You Should Use Wire EDM / /

Wire electrical discharge machining (EDM) is an effective manufacturing method for electrically conductive, hard, and intricate parts. EDM is often used when conventional manufacturing methods will not work.

Details Considered for Quoting a Wire EDM Job / /

Several important factors determine the cost of wire EDM, including the design, material, quantity ordered, and turnaround time.

Design

The wire EDM process allows for geometric and intricate shapes to be machined with a high level of accuracy. Since the machine does not contact or place pressure on the material, very thin metal sections may be cut. The wire EDM method eliminates any cutting stress or distortion. A fine finish is produced, which eliminates the need for finishing procedures.

Material

Wire EDM can cut through even the hardest material. Solid pieces of metal can be machined, eliminating distortion since the material does not need to be heat treated. Any heat applied to the material is minimal and quickly removed by dielectric fluid.

Quantity

Wire EDM costs are also affected by the volume of parts required. Costs can be lowered by stacking the parts during cutting, which helps to reduce the amount of time required. Generally, most costs are quoted based on the time a job takes on the cutting machine.

Turnaround Time

Wire EDM is a cost-effective process. As an automated method that offers extreme precision, labor and time are reduced. No custom tooling is required, which helps to cut down on lead times. EDM results in a smooth part, which means a finishing or secondary process is not needed. Since no finishing is needed, the part is produced quickly.

Wire EDM Quote Times / /

Take advantage of Fathom’s SmartQuote online platform and receive a quote in as little as 1 hour, usually within 24 hours. Do you need a wire EDM quote, or would you like to learn about another manufacturing service? Fathom’s wire EDM lead times are as follows:

  • Parts as fast as 5 days

Wire EDM Services Offered by Fathom / /

Fathom is ready to work with you on your wire EDM job. Let us utilize our single-source global network to support your low- and high-volume projects. By leveraging both additive and advanced technologies, Fathom can produce high-quality parts that will satisfy our customers.

Wire EDM is one of 28 manufacturing processes offered by Fathom.

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

How Wire EDM Differs from Other Cutting Processes

Wire EDM

Wire EDM is a manufacturing process used to cut through electrically conductive materials that may not be machined using conventional methods such as titanium, carbon steel, and tungsten. Sometimes called spark EDM, wire EDM uses a tool to discharge sparks that melt through the material to create an accurate cut. Throughout the process, the workpiece is submerged in water which carries away any material waste. Wire EDM is perfect for parts that require complex geometries and high accuracy. Learn more about wire EDM.

Water Jet Cutting

Water jet manufacturing is a manufacturing process that uses water to shape material. During water jet cutting, a pump with a cutting head as small as a human hair generates an extremely high-pressured stream of water. The water is combined with an abrasive (garnet) to cut through thick material such as steel. Water jet cutting is a good match for projects that require an outstanding edge quality. While both wire EDM and water jet cutting are capable of precision and cutting through hard materials, wire EDM is considered more accurate than waterjet. If ultimate accuracy is not required for a part, waterjet cutting may be a suitable option. Learn more about water jet cutting.

Laser Cutting

Laser cutting uses a high-powered laser to cut raw material. Laser cutting is most commonly used on sheet metal, wood, glass, rubber, and more. During laser cutting, CNC controls the direction of the workpiece and the laser beam. Like wire EDM, laser cutting is capable of clean cuts and high accuracy. Unlike wire EDM, it should not be used to cut through material thicker than 4 inches. Learn more about laser cutting.

Micro Cutting

Micro cutting or micro water jet cutting is water jet manufacturing on a micro-level. Water jet cutting uses a high-pressure stream of water and an abrasive to cut through the material. Micro cutting is often used to create small components where high accuracy is required. Micro cutting should only be used to make flat parts with a thickness between 0.001” to 0.125”. While wire EDM and micro cutting are highly accurate methods, wire EDM is preferred when working with thicker raw material. Learn more about micro water jet cutting.

Wire EDM Machines Used by Fathom / /

Fathom’s manufacturing facilities are powered by over 530 machines, including mills, lathes, presses, press brakes, turret punches and additive systems. Thirty-one of Fathom’s machines are dedicated to wire EDM manufacturing. Fathom’s 31 machines include 16 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 also offers hybridized services that leverage wire EDM. Do you need wire EDM as part of a more complex project? 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 technology facilitates higher cutting accuracies and tighter tolerance than standard cutting methods. A lower power and speed can be used to improve the accuracy of wire EDM. By reducing the power and flushing pressure results in +/- 0.0005” tolerance. Wire EDM provides great precision, even when working with the hardest of raw materials.

Material Thickness Tolerance Kerf Part Volume Set Up Cost Lead Time ** Notes
0.001″ – 6″ 0.0005″ 0.005″ 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

Advantages of Wire EDM / /

Wire EDM has multiple benefits that will impact your project. Wire EDM uses an electrically charged wire to cut shapes, making it capable of cutting pieces from fragile and hard materials. Since manufacturing involves little to no impact or pressure on the raw material, even brittle parts can be made using wire EDM. High accuracy is possible as wire EDM machining is considered more precise than laser or plasma cutting. Wire EDM manufacturing is typically a one-step process, which helps to reduce lead time. Lastly, the quick turnaround time and minimal waste of wire EDM make it a cost-effective method.

Wire EDM Finishing Processes / /

While wire EDM can produce a smooth, mirror-like finish, some finishing may be needed to customize the part. Some common finishing processes used on wire EDM parts include:

Painting

Painting is used to add color, varnish, or ink to a part. Painting methods may include powder coating, liquid coating, or e-coating. The powder is electrostatically charged during powder coating, leaving a scratch-resistant and even coat on the metal part. Liquid coating is when wet paint is applied to a surface. E-coating is the process of dipping a metal part into a bath of paint. The part and paint are electrified, and the paint adheres to the part.

Transfers

Transfers may be used to add a label or design to a part. The design is placed onto the part, pressure is applied using a heated press, and the design is transferred. This method can also be used to print a design that will later be engraved onto the part.

Assembly

Assembly is required when the unit manufactured is part of a larger piece. During the assembly step, the workpiece is bonded together with other parts to create the final product. Fasteners or bonding procedures may be used to fuse the parts temporarily or permanently.

Drilling

Drilling is used to add a round hole. Drilling may be performed using a drill press, tapping, or milling machine. Different types of drills may be used, such as spotting or peck drills, depending on the mark that must be made.

Deburring

Deburring is used to remove any raised edges or unwanted material known as burrs. Deburring may be achieved using several methods, including 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 deburring uses an abrasive slurry to deburr the part.

Examples of Wire EDM Parts / /

Many industries use wire EDM manufacturing, including automotive, aerospace, electronics and more. Wire EDM is a highly accurate process capable of outstanding feature resolutions using fragile and hard materials. Examples of wire EDM parts include:

  • Internal gear
  • Titanium needles
  • Miniature parts
  • Extrusion dies
  • Blanking punches
  • Small hole drilling
  • Extrusion molds
  • Tools
  • Progressive stamping dies
  • Medical devices
  • Aerospace parts
  • Automotive parts
  • Robotics

Wire EDM Quotes 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 is the difference between EDM and wire EDM?

A: While both EDM and wire EDM use an electrical discharge to shape material, wire EDM is capable of more complex shapes than conventional EDM.

How to Get Wire EDM Quotes / /

Are you looking to get Wire EDM quotes or calculate costs for an upcoming project? Fathom’s SmartQuote application provides fast quotes for any file. Receive a quote in as little as one hour.

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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