EDM class expectations - need info

[tom tom]

Hello,

I teach wire, sinker and small hole EDM's in a technical college. This class is a 3 credit, 90 hour total class in which we go over some programming (MasterCAM), the Reliable EDM textbook, and machine operations. It seems some students don't want to believe me when I emphasise that there are certain things they should know when they leave here. So...I would appreciate it if you shop fellows would write me what you would expect a recent graduate of a 2 year machining program such as ours to know about EDM's when he shows up at your shop and says he can run EDM equipment. I will share this with my class, as I do with the information I received the other year on what they should know about EDM programming.

best regards, Tom Tom

[Royster]

There are 3 fundamental rules I use when training any Engineer.

1. Protection of yourself and others
2. Protection of the machining equipment
3. Protection of the customer's work

So a trained Engineer would need to be able to demonstrate this on day 1.

After this I'd expect a good understanding of machine setting. Understanding of the EDM process. Understanding of time scales and flexability.

At our company I train raw recruits (with no knowledge) and after 3 months working I'd expect them to be able to run at least 3, perhaps 7 machines on their own. With the exception of "off-line" programming. So of 2 years I'd expect total unsupervised production after 1 month.

I had one trainee Engineer that within 3 months broke 2 of my 3 rules above. So he had to go

During an interview I look for that "spark" (no pun intended) of instinct, intellect and enjoyment.

If I can help further...

HTH