Diamond Tools and EDM
In order for a cutting tool to cut a work piece, the material of the tool must be harder than that of the work piece. Diamond is the hardest material known to man have been used for crafting since ancient times. Diamond tools are traditional machine tools like drills and lathes with the cutting edges covered or made of diamond. The hardness of diamond allows quicker cutting of materials that other kinds of tools struggle with.
A downside to diamond tools is the risk of graphitization. When exposed to high temperatures and in contact with carbon-containing materials like high-carbon steel and alloys, the diamond on the tips or surface of the tools can graphitize or turn to graphite.
This is no surprise since both graphite and diamond are made of carbon atoms. The difference in properties between the two is due to their molecular structures. The molecular structure of a carbon compound can be altered by changes in pressure, temperature and exposure to other kinds of compounds.
When it comes to cutting or shaping high-carbon steel and metals, EDM is a better alternative. EDM stands for electrical discharge machining. An EDM machine produces controlled electrical discharges to remove materials from a work piece. The sparks are generated by the electrode component of the machine. There are different materials used for electrodes but the most popular are graphite electrodes. Graphite electrodes are durable and reliable, and are very easy to machine into desired shape. The electrodes also come in different grades that allow operators to have complete control over the quality of finish.
