4. Wire cutting

4.1 Principle

Wire cutting consists of using a taut wire and moving it using movements managed by a 2-axis or 4-axis numerical control (figure 26 ). The material is gradually removed, and the wire gradually reproduces the programmed shape, with a kerf slightly larger than its diameter (diameter plus twice the inter-electrode distance). This technique does not require the prior manufacture of one or more electrodes, and is therefore naturally flexible.

Its main advantage is its ability to produce fine cuts, thanks to the small wire diameter (0.02 to 0.3 mm; usually 0.2 or 0.25 mm).

The technique is used for machining complex shapes, provided they are formed...