1. Faster processing speed: Under normal circumstances, the mechanical processing speed of graphite can be 2 to 5 times faster than copper; while the discharge processing speed is 2 to 3 times faster than copper, and the material is less likely to deform: it has obvious advantages in the processing of thin rib electrodes; the softening point of copper is around 1000 degrees, which is easily deformed by heat; the sublimation temperature of graphite is 3650 degrees; the thermal expansion coefficient is only 1/30 of copper.
2. Lighter weight: The density of graphite is only 1/5 of copper. When large electrodes are used for electrical discharge processing, it can effectively reduce the burden on machine tools (EDM); it is more suitable for applications in large molds.
3. The discharge consumption is smaller; since spark oil also contains C atoms, during discharge machining, the high temperature causes the C atoms in the spark oil to be decomposed, and in turn forms a protective film on the surface of the graphite electrode, compensating for the loss of the graphite electrode.
4. No burrs; after copper electrodes are processed, they still need to be trimmed manually to remove burrs, while graphite has no burrs after processing, saving a lot of costs and making it easier to realize automated production.
5. Graphite is easier to grind and polish; since the cutting resistance of graphite is only 1/5 of copper, it is easier to grind and polish manually.
6. Lower material costs and more stable prices; due to the increase in copper prices in recent years, the price of isotropic graphite is now lower than copper. At the same volume, the price of Toyo Tanso's universal graphite products is 30% to 60% lower than the price of copper, and the price is more stable, with very small short-term price fluctuations.