Choose wire EDM when you need:

• accurate parts
• fine finishes
• burr-free parts
• perpendicular cut surfaces
• accurate side tapers
• moderate quantities of thin flat parts ( tens, hundreds or low thousands)
• accurate relation to other features
• parts that are thicker than their width
• minimum heat affected zone
• fragile delicate parts
• small parts
• frequent design changes

  Laser or waterjet is cheaper when you can accept:

• Open tolerances and rougher finishes
• Non-perpendicular cut surfaces
• Larger internal corner radii

  Plasma or oxy-fuel works when you can live with :

• Precision measured with a tape measure
• Large heat affected zone
• Dross, scale, edge gouges and other gross imperfections

  Punching is best when you need very high volumes or:

• Drawn, stamped or bent features on the part.
• Embossing or marking on the part

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