EDM processing: repair mold damage
author: Universe plastic
2024-10-25
Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is widely and effectively used in mold repair, especially for repairing damage to small parts such as corners, curved surfaces, and deep grooves of molds.
How to learn and use the EDM process to repair injection molds? Here are some key points provided by Universe Plastics engineers about EDM processing for mold damage repair:
Advantages of EDM in mold repair
1. Precision repair
EDM can remove or replenish material with extremely high precision, which is particularly effective when dealing with small or hard-to-reach damaged areas of molds.
2. Does not produce mechanical stress
EDM melts and removes material through electric spark discharge, avoiding the mechanical stress caused by traditional cutting processing and reducing the risk of mold deformation during the repair process.
3. Hard material processing
Because EDM processing has little dependence on hardness, high-hardness materials such as hardened steel can be effectively repaired.
Typical mold damage EDM repair steps
1. Damage assessment
Before using EDM to repair, conduct a comprehensive assessment of the mold damage area to determine the depth, scope and type of damage.
2. Electrode design
Electrodes are made according to the specific shape of the mold damage, usually copper or graphite electrodes are used because they have good conductivity and wear resistance.
3. Repair processing
The electrode is placed on the damaged area and material is gradually removed or added by controlling the frequency and intensity of spark discharge to achieve precise repair results.
4. Post-processing and polishing
After EDM repair is completed, polishing or grinding is usually required to ensure that the surface finish of the repaired area is consistent with the rest of the mold.
Common types of mold damage and EDM repair methods
1. Cracks
For small cracks that appear on the surface of the mold, small electrodes can be used to remove the material at the crack through electric discharge for repair.
2. Edge cracking
For mold edge cracks, EDM can repair the damaged edge by precisely controlling the spark discharge range, allowing the mold to regain its complete shape.
3. Dent or chip
For areas with depressions or gaps on the surface, appropriately shaped electrodes can be used to evenly deposit or remove material through multiple discharges, gradually restoring surface flatness.
Precautions for EDM repair mold
1. Cooling and discharge frequency control
When repairing the mold, it is necessary to control the discharge frequency and cooling rate to avoid damage to the mold material due to excessive temperature.
2. Subsequent heat treatment
In some cases, in order to ensure the hardness and wear resistance of the repaired area, appropriate heat treatment is required after EDM repair.
EDM repair mold application cases
1. Plastic mold repair
Plastic injection molds will experience wear and surface damage during long-term use, especially in high-temperature and high-pressure environments. Using EDM to repair local damage can extend the service life of the mold.
2. Stamping mold repair
EDM can accurately handle minor damage to the corners and holes of stamping molds, ensuring the shape and surface accuracy of the molds during the stamping process.
Summarize
The application of EDM in mold damage repair can not only extend the service life of the mold, but also complete the repair of complex damage in a shorter time, effectively saving costs.
Dongguan Universe Plastic Factory has been producing and making injection molds for more than 15 years, specializing in the production of various high-quality injection molds. With a professional team and advanced processing equipment, we can provide you with high-quality plastic mold repair services.
If you have problems with the plastic molds you purchased elsewhere and are looking for a quality mold repairer, please contact us to get the latest service information.
Injection molding machine type: hydraulic injection molding machine
EDM processing: complex shaped electrodes
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