Setting the Standard for EDM Job Shops

Milco Wire EDM provides a variety of machining services for a variety of technical industries including medical, defense, aerospace, and energy. Milco Wire EDM carries with it several certifications (ISO 9001:2008, Nadcap, AS9100) that demonstrate Milco’s dedication to the highest quality control standards. Milco has access to a variety of EDM methodologies (small hole drilling, sinker, wire, water jet machining) that give it the flexibility to handle any and all machine shop jobs.

What is EDM?

Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is a specific manufacturing process where sparks and electrical current are used to cut and shape the workpiece. This is achieved by running an electric current between two electrodes that are separated by a liquid electrical insulator also known as dielectric liquid. The complete lack of physical contact between the workpiece and the machine prevents any warping or deformation from occurring. This is particularly useful when working on certain materials that conventional machining would otherwise impact, causing deformation.

What We Offer

Wire EDM

Wire EDM uses a thin wire electrode on a spool to slice into a work piece.

Wire diameters of: .004", .006", .008", .010", and .012".
Wide/large table travel up to 13.7" x 19.68".
Cutting head Z axis heights up to 11.8".
Up to 45 degree tapered cuts depending on workpiece height.
4 axis, independent movement on all machines.
Top-quality and modern 3R tooling for convenient and expedited setups on production and protoype runs.
Automatic threading capabilities aid in lights out and around the clock manufacturing.
Computer vision measuring devices up to 75x magnification to aid in thorough inspections.

Sinker EDM

Sinker, also called plunge, ram, and die sinker EDM works by slowly sinking a custom-made electrode into a workpiece, leaving an impression of the electrode.

Produces a fine finish and well-defined corners.
Tolerances up to .0001".
24 hour lights out manufacturing capabilities, for large orders & fast turnaround machining.
Automation capabilities with robotic tool changers from System3R.
Standard work envelope capacity of 18"x13"x24".
Repeatability of +/-.00005" for rigorous accuracy demands.
Total machining accuracy down to .0002".
Production finishes down to 8RA.

Small Hole EDM

Small hole EDM drilling, or hole-popping, uses a tubular electrode to drill a hole into a workpiece. Small hole EDM often complements wire EDM by drilling a start hole.

Single-hole electrodes for through-hole drilling.
Multi-channel electrodes for blind-hole drilling.
Start hole drilling for wire EDM.
Angled drilling is available.

Water Jet Machining

Water jet cutting uses a high pressure water jet and abrasive agents to cut through materials. A versatile machining method that complements EDM.

Smooth surface finish: no burnt edges, chips, burrs, or slag.
Works with common materials: composites, acrylics, ceramics, metals, foams, rubbers, honeycombs, glass to fiberglass, granite, cement, marble, tile and wood.
Works with exotic materials: g10, kevlar, mylar, plastic, polyethylene, polyimide, niobium, and laminates.
Computer control allows for maximization of efficiency.
Low temperature machining with no heat-affected zone.
Environmentally sustainable, with no toxic emissions or waste.

CNC Machining

Mill, lathes, grinders, and engravers.

Custom tooling can be made to aid EDM processes.
Conventional machining complements EDM.
Equipment is certified and maintained.

MicroVu Vertext automated precision measurement system.

Quality Assurance

Nadcap Certification.
AS9100 Revision C Certification.
ISO9001:2008 Certified.
ITAR Compliant.
In-house inspection equipment.