Electro Discharge Machining (EDM) of Glass: Techniques, Applications, and Challenges

Abstract

Electro Discharge Machining (EDM) is a specialized machining process that tradiƟonally excels in precision work on hard and electrically conducƟve materials by using electrical discharges to erode material from a workpiece. Recent innovaƟons have expanded EDM's applicaƟon to non-conducƟve materials, such as glass, presenƟng both exciƟng opportuniƟes and unique challenges. When applied to glass, EDM requires modificaƟons to accommodate the material's non-conducƟve nature, involving techniques like using specific electrode materials or enhancing the dielectric fluid's properƟes. This paper delves into the underlying principles of EDM as applied to glass, exploring the technical adaptaƟons necessary to overcome inherent challenges such as thermal damage and precision control. It also reviews recent advancements in this field and compares EDM with other glass machining techniques—such as laser cuƫng and abrasive water jets—highlighƟng the relaƟve advantages, limitaƟons, and potenƟal applicaƟons of EDM for intricate glass components and high-precision glasswork.