Which machining process removes material through repeated electrical sparking?

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) is the process that removes material through repeated electrical sparking. This technique involves creating a series of electrical discharges or sparks between an electrode and the workpiece, which erodes the material in a precise manner. EDM is particularly useful for machining hard materials and intricate shapes that are difficult to achieve through conventional cutting methods.

In EDM, the electrode can be shaped specifically to the desired contours of the final product, allowing for high accuracy and repeatability. The process requires a dielectric fluid to cool and flush away the eroded material, which adds to its effectiveness in maintaining a clean working environment and prolonging tool life.

Other processes mentioned, like laser cutting, milling, and grinding, utilize different principles for material removal. Laser cutting uses focused light energy to melt or vaporize material, milling involves mechanical cutting through rotating tools, and grinding employs abrasive wheels to wear away material. Each of these methods has its unique applications but does not utilize the electrical sparking mechanism characteristic of EDM.