Processing principle:

• Wire EDM (Wire EDM): Use a thin wire (usually copper or brass) as an electrode to cut the workpiece by continuously moving the wire. Electric sparks are generated between the wire and the workpiece, thereby removing material.
• Sink EDM (Sinker EDM): Use a fixed-shape electrode (usually copper or graphite), the shape of the electrode corresponds to the shape of the hole or groove to be processed. The electrode moves downward and contacts the workpiece to generate electric sparks and remove material.

Processing accuracy:

• Wire EDM: Usually has higher processing accuracy because it uses thin wires and can make finer cuts.
• Sink EDM: The accuracy is relatively low because it depends on the shape and size of the electrode.

Processing speed:

• Wire EDM: Due to the continuous movement of the wire, the processing speed is usually slow.
• Sink EDM: The processing speed is usually fast because the contact area between the electrode and the workpiece is larger, which can remove material faster.

Application range:

• Wire EDM: Suitable for processing parts with complex shapes, such as cutting of molds and processing of precision parts.
• Sink EDM: Suitable for processing straight holes, blind holes and complex-shaped holes, as well as grooves and cavities.

Cost:

• Wire EDM: Relatively high cost due to the need to frequently change the wire.
• Sink EDM: The electrode can be reused and the cost is relatively low.

Operational complexity:

• Wire EDM: Relatively simple operation because the movement and cutting of the wire are automated.
• Sink EDM: More complex operation, requiring precise control of the position and movement of the electrode.

Surface quality:

• Wire EDM: Can provide better surface quality because the wire can be cut more finely.
• Sink EDM: Surface quality may be poorer because the removal process of the electric spark may be rougher.