Technical Guide
Small Hole EDM Tolerance Guide
Review how small hole EDM drilling supports start holes, cooling holes and fine conductive-hole features.
EDM Parameter Summary
| Parameter | Reference Range | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Wire EDM Tolerance (typical) | ±0.005 – 0.025 mm | Depends on material, thickness, skim passes and machine calibration. |
| Sinker EDM Tolerance (typical) | ±0.010 – 0.030 mm | Depends on electrode wear, cavity depth, flushing and finishing electrodes. |
| Surface Roughness (typical) | Ra 0.1 – 3.2 μm | Finish passes and post-processing can improve the result. |
Typical capability references only. Final tolerances and surface finish must be confirmed from your drawing, material grade, part geometry and inspection method.
EDM Feasibility Notes
We review EDM feasibility for the selected material using the drawing geometry, conductive material condition, tolerance, surface finish, quantity and inspection requirements.
Technical Explanation
This guide explains why EDM tolerance depends on material, thickness, pass strategy, flushing, geometry and inspection method.
Project question: Small Hole EDM Tolerance
Process Capability Facts
We review EDM process fit from material conductivity, feature access, thickness, geometry, tolerance, surface finish and inspection requirements.
Tolerance, Surface Finish and Geometry Review
Typical tolerance and surface finish depend on material, thickness, feature geometry, flushing, finishing passes and inspection method. Final values must be confirmed from the drawing.
Recast Layer / Surface Integrity Notes
Surface integrity, recast layer, micro-crack risk, post-processing and inspection depend on the material, EDM process, geometry and machine setup.
Technical Review Checklist
| Concept | Small Hole EDM Tolerance Guide |
|---|---|
| How we use this guide | We use these points to discuss EDM process fit before confirming the production approach. |
| Drawing review | We confirm material conductivity, feature access, geometry, thickness, tolerance, surface finish and inspection method from your drawing. |
| Project details | Please include drawings, material grade, critical dimensions and any required inspection or surface-integrity controls. |
Inspection and Capability Reference
Inspection planning may include dimensional measurement, optical measurement, surface roughness checks and report requirements according to the drawing.
Technical Note
Use this technical guide to prepare your drawing and key requirements, then contact our team when you need project-specific EDM review.
Need help reviewing an EDM drawing?
Send a drawing question, material details and key requirements for technical review.
Frequently Asked Questions
What affects EDM tolerance?
EDM tolerance can be affected by material, thickness, machine setup, flushing, pass strategy, feature geometry and inspection method.
Why does material thickness affect EDM tolerance?
Thicker parts may require different cutting conditions, flushing control and inspection planning, so tolerance should be confirmed from the drawing.
Why are finishing passes important?
Finishing or skim passes can improve dimensional control and surface finish when the geometry and material allow them.
What drawing details are needed to confirm EDM tolerance?
Provide critical dimensions, tolerance callouts, datum references, material grade, thickness, surface finish and inspection requirements.
Can one EDM tolerance apply to every material?
No. EDM capability must be reviewed according to material, geometry, thickness, machine setup and inspection method.