In milling and EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining), a holder is a specialized clamp or fixture that securely grips and positions the workpiece (the material being machined) or the electrode within the machine. It acts like a middleman, ensuring the workpiece stays stable and precisely aligned during the cutting or erosion process.
In EDM, a holder acts as a secure mount for the electrode, the conductive tool responsible for material removal. This allows the electrode to be machined to the desired shape in a milling machine before being used in the EDM machine. A holder allows for quick swaps between different electrodes and ensures precise positioning during the erosion process.
Another advantage of using an electrode holder is that it allows the workpiece to be mounted on the holder once and then machined in both the milling machine and the EDM machine without ever removing the electrode from the holder. This can save time and improve accuracy, as it eliminates the need to re-position the workpiece between the two machines.
Finally, electrode holders can be made from a variety of materials, including corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel. This makes them ideal for use in WEDM applications, where the electrode is exposed to a harsh environment.