Machining
In its conventional form, standard machining requires the manual use of lathes, milling machines and drill presses. R. D. Mould & Industry with advanced technology, CNC machining has become the predominant means of creating more complex and accurate molds, while still using standard machining methods. With CNC, computers are used to control the movement and operation of the mills, lathes, and other cutting machines.
In modern CNC systems, the mold design and manufacturing processes are both highly automated. The mold’s mechanical dimensions are defined using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and then translated into manufacturing instructions by computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. “Post processor” software then transforms these instructions into the specific commands necessary for each machine used in creating the mold. The resulting commands are then loaded into the CNC machine.Our expert engineers process the mould using our latest technology.
- CNC Lathes Machines
- CNC Turning Machines
- Vertical Milling Machines
- Electrical Discharge Machines
Electrical Discharge Machining:
Electrical discharge machining (EDM) has become widely used in mold making. EDM is a process in which a desired shape is obtained through the use of an electrode, which is fabricated out of graphite or copper. It is then mounted in an EDM machine and positioned over the workpiece, which is submerged in a dielectric fluid.
The electrode is then lowered to the workpiece. Then, using a controlled electrical source, the electrode is used to destroy and disperse the metal in the area opposite of the electrode. The electrode never contacts the workpiece. A spark gap of a few thousandths of an inch is always maintained between the electrode and workpiece. This process is a slower method of removing metal from a mold; however, the EDM process can produce shapes that are not possible with conventional CNC machining.
Another advantage of the EDM process is that it allows pre-hardened molds to be shaped and eliminates the need for additional heat-treating. At times, such as with speaker grille molds, the resulting fine EDM finish serves to be the final part finish without any polishing of the mold cavity.