Investigation of complex rapid EDM electrodes for rapid tooling applications

This paper describes a collaborative research programme aimed at investigating the use of quick EDM electrodes obtained via appropriate rapid prototyping techniques in finishing laser-sintered tools. Two methods were employed in obtaining the EDM electrodes: copper coating of stereolithography models and copper coating of direct metal laser sintered (bronze) models. The amount of copper deposited on both electrode models proved problematic as the electroplating process was unable to deposit enough copper in the inner cavities of the electrodes, with very gradual reduction in copper layer thickness from the outer faces/surface to virtually no deposition in the inner walls and bottom face. Consequently, the electrodes were not suitable for the envisaged EDM process.