Which industries benefit most from EDM’s complex superalloy capabilities, and why?

Aerospace and Aviation

The aerospace sector relies heavily on EDM to machine intricate cooling channels, film holes and sealing interfaces in turbine blades and combustor components. Superalloys such as Inconel 939 and high-generation CMSX-series alloys benefit from non-contact EDM machining to avoid stress-induced distortion. Superior precision and surface finish are critical for aerodynamic performance and fatigue resistance in jet engines and aero-derivative turbines.

Power Generation

Gas turbines used in power generation require internal passages for thermal management and pressure regulation. EDM enables accurate drilling of cooling slot geometries in powder metallurgy alloys such as FGH97, where traditional machining would cause tool wear and dimensional inaccuracy. This directly improves turbine efficiency and lifespan.

Oil and Gas

In the oil and gas sector, complex EDM machining is used for high-pressure valves, downhole tools and sealing components. Superalloys like Hastelloy, Inconel 725 and Monel K500 must withstand corrosive fluids and extreme pressures. EDM eliminates burrs and mechanical stress, ensuring precise sealing faces and long-term reliability in harsh drilling environments.

Medical and Food Processing

For hygienic equipment and precision pumps in the medical and food processing industry, smooth internal surfaces are essential to prevent contamination. EDM allows formation of micro-channels and intricate flow paths in titanium and duplex alloys without cracking or roughness, supporting cleanability and sterilization requirements.