“Much has been written about the offshoring of U.S. manufacturing, but some experts see a re-shoring trend due to the increasing demand for micro components produced by high precision EDM technology,” said an AMT - Association for Manufacturing Technology spokesperson.

“The American machinist has higher expectations for quality, accuracy and productivity, and that attracts customers to the U.S. market,” said Gisbert Ledvon, Director of Business Development, GF Machining Solutions LLC, Lincolnshire, IL. “To find EDM technology that enables a machine shop to differentiate itself, I can think of no better place than IMTS.”

For IMTS 2016, which runs from September 12-17, 2016 at McCormick Place in Chicago, visitors can find EDM technology concentrated in the EDM Pavilion, located in the center of the East Building. In addition, companies demonstrating EDM along with other technologies are located throughout the show, including GF Machining Solutions in the South Building.

“IMTS provides an overview because a machine shop owner can evaluate the spectrum of EDM technology in one location,” said Ledvon. “That said, I do not think shop owners want to be mainstream anymore. They want high-end EDM technology and seek customers that challenge them to deliver innovative solutions, such as 1 µm accuracy.”

“If you think of EDM as a mature technology, think again. IMTS 2016 will expose you to new machines capable of greater accuracy and enhanced surface finishes,” said Peter R. Eelman, Vice President – Exhibitions & Business Development at AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology. “We are gratified to see the incorporation of the MTConnect communications protocol in EDM machines being demonstrated at the show.” AMT and IMTS played an integral role in the development and launch of MTConnect.

Protocols such as MTConnect can enable fast communication between devices and software controls. The ability to monitor and analyze more data translates into tangible benefits, such as 1 µm accuracy. By placing advanced temperature sensors in the casting, the dielectric and the work zone and connecting them to CNC controls, today’s EDM machine can maintain the casting at a consistent 68 °F (20 °C), the temperature at which dimensions are measured. By eliminating the variables related to thermal expansion or contraction, the machine can cut with accuracy and repeatability.

In another trend shift, more EDM machines offer automatic wire threading technology. These machines can make a first, faster cut with larger diameter wire (e.g., 0.01”) and then automatically switch to a smaller wire diameter (e.g., 0.004” or finer) for complex parts.

“Users can now purchase a single machine that runs unattended instead of one machine for a coarser cut and a second machine for a finer cut,” said Ledvon. “Operators are free to attend to other tasks, do not have to transfer parts between machines and do not have to worry about accuracy errors related to cutting on two different machines.”

Advances in vision systems, now incorporated into the EDM machine, also increase quality. These systems compare the shape of the contour just cut with a 3-D model of the part. If the system senses any deviation from the desired dimensions, it will automatically make adjustments to the next part.

“The current generation of wire EDM machines basically incorporate smart machine capabilities,” said Ledvon. “In-process inspection eliminates one step of the quality assurance process while minimizing scrap or rework.”

“When it comes to die sinking EDM, end users are now asking for enhanced surface finishes that enable them to make millions of plastic parts without maintenance on the mold,” said Ledvon. “We can accomplish this not by changing the RA value (roughness value), but by changing the shape of the surface texture.”

“With advanced touch screen controls that differentiate it from old-school milling machines, EDM systems can better attract people interested in working with advanced equipment for a living,” said the spokesperson.

“EDM enables near perfect predictability and unmatched repeatability. Its higher level of automation sets young operators up for successful results, and that makes machining a more attractive career,” said Ledvon.

“Today’s generation does not want to use yesterday’s technology,” adds Eelman. “Whether you are evaluating career options, a shop owner looking to attract new customers or an industry representatives looking for greater value, you can find answers in the EDM Pavilion.”

To set up meetings with exhibitors in the EDM Pavilion and to search for other exhibitors with EDM systems on display, use the MyShowPlanner tool at IMTS.com.

For more information contact:

International Manufacturing Technology Show

McCormick Place

2301 S Lake Shore Dr.

Chicago, IL 60616

800-828-7469

www.imts.com

AMT

7901 Westpark Drive

McLean, VA 22102-4206

703-893-2900 / 800-524-0475

amt@amtonline.org