Electric spark machine is a type of equipment that uses the principle of electrical discharge to perform precise material processing, widely used in the manufacturing of complex parts. It achieves fine cutting and shaping of materials through spark discharge to meet the requirements of high-precision machining. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the electric spark machine structure and operational steps to offer you a comprehensive understanding.
Electric spark machine comprises several key components, each playing an important role in the machining process.
Bed and Column
The bed and column are the foundational structures of the electric spark machine, ensuring the relative positional accuracy between the electrode and the worktable or workpiece. The structural design of the bed and column directly affects machining precision. Insufficient rigidity of the bed and column can result in deformation due to the weight of the spindle and the inertial force of moving parts, affecting machining outcomes. Therefore, these components need to be well-designed with sufficient rigidity and should effectively minimize the impact of temperature changes on precision.
Worktable
The worktable is the part of the electric spark machine used to support and clamp the workpiece. During actual machining, the relative position between the electrode and the workpiece is adjusted by rotating the longitudinal and transverse lead screws. The worktable is equipped with a fluid reservoir to hold the working fluid, which not only cools the electrode and the workpiece but also helps in removing debris produced during machining. The mobility and adjustment precision of the worktable are critical to ensuring smooth machining processes.
Spindle Head
The spindle head is one of the core components of the electric spark machine, mainly including the servo feed mechanism, guide and anti-torsion mechanisms, and auxiliary mechanisms. These parts work together to control the discharge gap between the workpiece and the electrode. The design accuracy and stability of the spindle head directly affect the machining performance of the electric spark machine, ensuring high precision and stability during the machining process.
Correct operational steps are crucial to ensuring the machining quality and efficiency of the electric spark machine. Below are the standard operational steps for the electric spark machine:
Machine Startup and Initial Preparation
First, turn on the power and make initial adjustments to the positions of the three axes (XYZ axes) to bring the machine to a standby state. During this process, manually pump oil once to ensure the lubrication system is functioning properly. This step is the foundation for the successful startup of the machine and the smooth progression of subsequent machining.
Preparation of Machining Drawings and Workpieces
Next, prepare the machining drawings and workpieces. Ensure a clear understanding of the specific locations, coordinates, spark positions, and machining methods for the parts to be processed. When receiving machining tasks, highlight important machining instructions to ensure operational accuracy. Proper preparation of drawings and workpieces is key to ensuring machining quality.
Calibration and Centering
Before discharge, calibration and centering operations are required. Place the workpiece on the clean magnetic table of the machine tool according to the correct machining method, and clamp the electrode on the Z axis as required. Then perform calibration and centering to ensure the relative position between the electrode and the workpiece meets the machining requirements. This step is crucial for ensuring machining accuracy and quality.