EDM Tooling by Solid Freeform Fabrication & Electroplating Techniques

The term "Rapid Tooling" refers to the rapid creation of tools in much the same way as Solid Freeform Fabrication (SFF) means the rapid creation of models. This revolutionary approach offers both designers and manufacturers attractive advantages in the form of time compression and cost reduction. Timesaving is of vital significance in the production of EDM electrodes for the fabrication ofmoulds and dies. The employment ofSFF and electroplating for this purpose is described. The performances of these new type of electrodes were compared with those obtained conventionally in terms of dimensional tolerances, surface roughness and working time. The surfaces ofboth electrodes and workpieces were also examined by SEM microscope.