Page 16 - MetalForming May 2014

Safety Update
The Hazards of Electric Discharge Machines
become trapped by the workpiece or in the fluid-handling system (reverse dielec- tric flow). Prevent this situation by ori- enting the workpiece, when possible, to eliminate trapped gas. When not pos- sible, provide for a large vent area by mounting the workpiece on blocks with adequate space between blocks.
The following hypothetical scenario demonstrates the risks that electronic dis- charge machines (EDM) can pose:
A fire erupts in a conventional EDM oper- ation, damaging the building and equip- ment, interrupting business and delaying deliveries to customers. An investigation reveals contributing factors to the fire:
For fire protection, include automatic systems for machines that run at high amperage or that cut deep cavities. All auto- matic systems must sound an approved audible warning at least 30 sec. prior to dis-
• The part being worked on was not fully submerged in the dielectric fluid.
• To fit the part in the EDM machine, the operator removed the diffuser from the machine’s fire-extinguishing system, rendering the protection ineffective.
charge. For machines without automatic protection, shops should keep a CO2 extinguisher (15 lb. min., rated at 12 BC) at each machine. Give complete instructions to all EDM operators regarding the prop-
• The machine was operating unattended.
Losses like this point to the need for adequate training of EDM operators with respect to safe procedures for setup and opera- tion; maintaining the integrity of fire-protection systems; and the need to monitor operations.
er use of fire-protection equipment. Warn operators of the potential for a fire to spread when blowing burning dielectric fluid from the tank with an extinguisher. Extreme care also is necessary to prevent blast- ing the flame in the direction of anyone assisting with the fire.
Other Hazards
During conventional EDM, the electrode runs in close proximity to the workpiece, bathed in a continuous flow of dielectric fluid. A direct current pulses from the control unit to the electrode, through the dielec- tric fluid to the workpiece. Each pulse partially ionizes the dielectric fluid and causes a submerged spark. Under normal conditions, a suf- ficient level of oil above the electrode quenches the spark and pre- vents ignition of the oil. However, if the oil level becomes too low, the electrode arc can become a ready source of ignition.
To avoid electrical shock, ensure proper grounding per the machine manufacturer’s recommendations. Be sure to adequately guard electrical cables and hazardous areas within the power supply. Also essential: Employee training in electrical safety and lock- out/tagout procedures. Moving component parts of the machine can create pinch points resulting in hand or finger injuries. Der- matitis also can result from handling the dielectric fluid. And, with a wire-EDM machine, the solutions used to clean the machine and remove scale from the tooling or work tank can be hazardous.
The principal hazard associated with this operation is the dielec- tric fluid, almost always combustible. EDM dielectric fluids gen- erally are silicones (synthetic polymers) or hydrocarbon oils, having a wide range of viscosities and flash points. Ideally the dielec- tric should not have a flashpoint lower than 250 F or a viscosity lower than 5 centistoke, though flashpoints can be as low as 200F.
Here’s a brief checklist to help safeguard EDM operations:
Jobs requiring deviations from ideal minimums require special operating procedures and controls to reduce hazards. The temperature of the dielectric should not exceed 100 F during machining. When operating conditions cause the dielectric to heat to temperatures above 100 F, shops should employ an auxiliary cooling system.
• Provide operator training on proper machine operation, haz- ards created by the process and the importance of not dis- abling guards and fire-suppression systems.
Similarly, a wire-EDM operates by sending an electrical charge through a wire into a piece of raw material. The material burns away slowly to create the part.
• Ensure adequate local ventilation over the dielectric fluid sur- face to prevent gas accumulation.
Both EDM processes can generate flammable gases during machining. The type and quantities of gases produced vary depending on the dielectric fluid, material being machined, and operating temperature, current and voltage.
• Continually monitor fluid level above the workpiece and the tool during operation. Use safety switches that will stop the machine when a low level is detected. Routinely test and main- tain these safety switches.
Proper dielectric fluid level is of utmost importance for safe EDM operations. The fluid level should never drop below a point that would allow gas from the spark region to contact the air. The level should always be high enough to allow gas produced in the dis- charge region to form a bubble before it breaks to the atmosphere. Equip machines with a switch that triggers and stops the machine if the fluid drops to an unsafe level.
• Don’t run machines unattended.
• Provide and maintain adequate fire-protection equipment. • Install temperature controls to keep fluid temperature below 100 F. • Position workpieces prevent gases from becoming trapped. • Conduct maintenance, per the machine manufacturer’s
Gases produced during EDM operations can, in some instances,
• Avoid use of dielectric fluids with flashpoints below 200 F. • Place nonconductive floor mats around the work area. Information provided by Sentry Insurance Group, Stevens Point,
14 MetalForming/May 2014
www.metalformingmagazine.com
• Post “No Smoking” signs near each machine.
instructions, on all protective devices, the power supply and insu- lation on power leads.
WI; 715/346-6000; www.sentry.com.