Electrical Discharge Machining and Compressed Air

June 24, 2014
1 minutes

For a precision components manufacturer whose parts end up in satellites, race cars, oil rigs and airplanes, innovating with the latest technologies helps the company remain competitive.

Di-spark, an engineering company based in the U.K., produces precision machine components using advanced manufacturing technologies. The company specializes in electrical discharge machining, also known as EDM, a process that uses the thermal energy of sparks to cut through conductive materials. This process is often used for hard metals such as steel or titanium that would be difficult to machine using traditional techniques.

Di-spark’s 24/7 manufacturing schedule has fluctuating demands, so the company chose the GA VSD+.  A variable speed drive adjusts the compressor’s operating speed in real time so production exactly matches demand. Advanced electronic controls regulate the speed of the motor and a converter in the variable speed drive system automatically controls both acceleration and deceleration levels. This eliminates amperage peaks and helps protect electrical and mechanical components from stresses that can shorten the life of the air compressor.

The company uses compressed air for a variety of applications including operating pneumatic tools that are controlled on the manufacturing floor. Because the compressor is present on the manufacturing floor where employees work, it must operate quietly and within noise standards. The GA VSD+ utilizes an innovative fan that helps achieve noise levels low enough for a normal conversation to be held while the machine is running.

If you would like to learn more about Di-spark and the GA VSD+, check out the following video:

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