How do wire EDM’s operate? How do they cut?

Query by wpjguy: How do wire EDM’s function? How do they reduce?
What are the positive aspects and disadvantages over other cutting processes?

Best answer:

Answer by redbeardthegiant
A spark jumps from the wire to the workpiece, evaporating some of the workpiece. Lots of sparks, lots of metal removed.
Advantage: quick, not a issue to do complex shapes. No functioning [and consequently hardening] at the reduce. No distortion of shape either
Disadvantages incorporate heating of the metal [loss of hardness]

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