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EDMs meet stringent satellite parts specifications

Edited by the Manufacturingtalk editorial team May 19, 2004

A firm that specialises in solving complex manufacturing problems for the motor racing and aerospace industries, is relying on its three EDMsto produce parts for a satellite launch.

Northampton, UK-based NH Precision, which specialises in solving complex manufacturing problems for the motor racing and aerospace industries, is relying on its three Sodick EDM machines to help create machined components for the prestigious Ariane satellite launch programme.

The company, which was founded nearly 20 years ago, has earned a formidable reputation for quality and engineering skill.

It has resulted in being not only ISO9001/2000 Registered but also an accredited Grade A supplier to Mercedes Ilmor, Cosworth Racing, and Approved Supplier to Meggitt Aerospace Components, for whom the parts are being produced.

The technical specifications for space componentry are unique.

When every dimension and tolerance is this critical only the best machine tools will do - which is why NH Precision relies on Sodick machines and consumables.

Partner David Nicholls explains, "We bought our first Sodick machine over eight years ago.

After fully researching the market we came to the conclusion that for price: performance Sodick came out on top.

That first machine proved easy to programme and reliable producing the high accuracy and level of finish we were looking for." The company subsequently bought another Sodick EDM machine, and, when the new linear technology was announced, purchased an AQ750L directly from the brochure, securing ownership of one of the very first machines of its type in the UK, delivering instantaneous servo time, which maximizes cutting efficiency.

Since there are no ball screws or couplings, backlash is totally eliminated and this provides several advantages, including improved positioning and cutting accuracy, while providing smooth and vibration free table movement.

The AQ750L, with its fixed table design allows even greater work piece weight, without affecting either table positioning or work piece accuracy.

As David says, "We were so happy with the other machines we just decided to go for it." EDM work on the Meggitt machined components includes machining tapered pockets, which would be very difficult to work in any other way, given that the tolerance required is in the region of 0.01mm on the 90mm diameter item.

This, however, poses no challenge for either the Sodick machines or NH Precision who regularly work to micron tolerances for motor racing components such as oil pump rotors, which were, in fact, the reason for the purchase of the Sodick EDM machines in the first place.