
09/09/2025
EDM machines always carry a potential fire risk. During the EDM process, a spark is generated, which is normally shielded from oxygen by a dielectric fluid – usually oil-based. However, if oxygen reaches the spark, a fire may ignite.
In practice, the dielectric is supplied via adjustable hoses. If operators fail to position these carefully, the risk of fire increases significantly. Other factors – such as unsuitable electrodes or incorrect process settings – can also trigger a fire.
For this reason, EDM machines today are fully enclosed and equipped with fire suppression systems as standard. Nevertheless, even short fires can cause major damage: cables, motors, measuring systems, or protective bellows may be destroyed, processes interrupted and machines taken out of service. Even if the fire suppression system activates in time, the fire extinguisher must be replaced after use – inevitably resulting in downtime.
EDM machines always carry a potential fire risk. During the EDM process, a spark is generated, which is normally shielded from oxygen by a dielectric fluid –