PicoEDM is a minimalist but well performing multi-process EDM machine made from readily available components and household tools. The PicoEDM has a quick change end effector mount allowing the user to easily swap between WEDM, SEDM, and Fast Hole. Pico's namesake is a nod to the tiny footprint of the machine. Its big brother is Nano - Micro was already taken:)
The current scope of the project:
- Use components that are readily available worldwide (Amazon.com serving as benchmark)
- 360mm by 500mm footprint and 170mmX; 110mmY; 50mmZ travels
- Trade comfort features for lower cost
- Use a rotary damper as a capstan brake to tension the wire
- Use a 3D printer filiment extruder as a wire pinch roller
- Use stainless on ALL submerged fasteners and structure components for machine longevity
- Implement adjustable worktable for precision
- Use preloaded Tr8x2 nuts with integrated leadscrew steppers and LM12UU bearings for motion
- Support the following modifications:
- Sinker EDM end effector
- Hole popper end effector
The recommended firmware and spark generator is supplied by GEDM
+ PROJECT NOW IN BETA!EDM machines are dangerous
Beware electric shock and pinch points. Be prepared to activate emergency stop. Do not leave machine unattended. You are responsible for your own safety.
Metric / Imperial The machine is nearly completely metric with the exception of the thickness of the laser cut parts and tank bumpers. These are modeled as the imperial stuff that is available in America. The nearest metric equivalents should work in all cases, but user should carefully review the CAD model before building to confirm.
- Implement flushing via new upper guide head geometry
- Simplified CAD model for weaker machines (no modeled threads and reduced internal bodies) available soon
Future Development:
- Ultra-compact spark generator
- Water filtration system contained in a 5 gallon bucket
This is not a spark generator or firmware project, although I do have a high end spark generator under development. This is not an ultra precision machine. For a machine with a much higher performance ceiling - see my NANOEDM
Verison 65 adds the following features:
- Stepper brake pulley changed to 16 tooth
- Stepper brake mount geometry improved
- Magentetic kinematic coupler changed to bolted kinematic coupler. Magnet will be revisited
- Wire unspooling path components are now modeled
- Machine now includes all features needed to run comfortably
- Project status updated to beta
Verison 62 adds the following features (huge changes):
- Capstan brake changed from rotary damper brake to stepper motor brake via MKS Servo42D driver in torque mode
- All heat set thread inserts removed in favor of plastic screws
- Redesigned wire end effector Z axis slider for better stability
- Doubled up the coupling magents to hold the end effector on better
- Again: Re-jointed the entire model from step files to clean things up and eliminate worthless dependancies
- Changed workholding strategy to magnetic base plate in tank. Any fixtures you want can be printed and attached with magnets
Verison 59 adds the following features:
- Redesigned wire end effector Z axis slider to eliminate the need for milling
- Re-jointed the entire model from step files to clean things up and eliminate worthless dependancies
- Fixed subtle issues with water tank bumper geometry
- .f3d file now available
- Capstan bearings and shaft switched from 1/4" to M6 and 6x12x4 bearing
Desmos calculators have been made for various applications - they are not necessarily complete