Electrodes for Gate Processing
Copper and tungsten copper EDM electrodes for machining submarine gates, pin-point gates, tapping holes, and engraving marks in injection mold tooling.
Products — 5 Variants
Electrodes for Submarine Gates
Electrodes for Submarine Gates
Electrodes for Pin-Point Gate - for SR Processing
Electrodes for Pin-Point Gate - for SR Processing
Undersized Tapping Electrodes - Copper, Tungsten Copper
Undersized Tapping Electrodes - Copper, Tungsten Copper
Electrodes for Engraving - Round Type, Copper
Electrodes for Engraving - Round Type, Copper
Electrodes for Pin-Point Gate - Gate Processing
Electrodes for Pin-Point Gate - Gate Processing
Compare Electrode Types and Materials
Electrodes differ by gate type (application) and material (wear vs cost):
By Application
| Electrode Type | Gate/Process | Geometry |
|---|---|---|
| Submarine Gate (EMPS) | Submarine gate channel machining | Conical tip matching submarine gate angle |
| Pin-Point Gate SR (EMPG) | Pin-point gate SR radius machining | Spherical tip for gate entry transition |
| Pin-Point Gate Channel (EMPGA) | Pin-point gate channel | Cylindrical with tapered tip |
| Tapping (EMPT) | Tapping pilot hole in hardened steel | Undersized cylindrical for pre-tap hole |
| Engraving (EMPE) | Text/symbol engraving on mold surface | Fine-point tip |
By Material
| Material | Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) | Tungsten Copper |
|---|---|---|
| Conductivity | Excellent (100% IACS) | Good (40-50% IACS) |
| Electrode Wear Rate | Moderate | Low (2-3x longer life) |
| Machinability | Easy to shape and re-dress | Hard, difficult to machine |
| Cost | $ Standard | $$$ Premium |
| Best For | Standard gate EDM, most applications | High-precision gates, fine features |
Material selection: For detailed conductivity and wear data, see our Copper vs. Tungsten Copper Electrodes Guide.
About Gate Processing Electrodes
MISUMI gate processing electrodes are pre-shaped to match standard gate geometries, eliminating the need for custom electrode fabrication. Each electrode type matches a specific gate geometry (submarine, pin-point SR, pin-point channel) with precise tip dimensions calibrated to MISUMI gate bushing specifications.
Application Scenarios
Select the electrode type based on your EDM machining task:
Submarine Gate Machining
Need to machine a submarine gate channel below the parting line for automatic gate separation in a two-plate mold.
EMPS submarine gate electrodes are pre-shaped to the standard submarine gate angle and taper. Drop in and burn — no custom electrode fabrication needed.
Pin-Point Gate Geometry
Need to machine the SR transition radius and gate channel for a pin-point gate in the cavity plate.
Use EMPG for the SR radius first, then EMPGA for the gate channel. Two-step process produces clean gate geometry with correct flow transition.
Tapping Pilot Holes in Hardened Steel
Need to create threaded holes in hardened mold steel where drilling is impossible or impractical.
EMPT undersized tapping electrodes create EDM pilot holes slightly smaller than the final thread size. Subsequent tapping with a standard tap produces clean threads in hardened steel (HRC 50+).
Frequently Asked Questions
What electrode material is best for pin-point gate EDM processing?+
What is the difference between SR processing and gate processing electrodes?+
How do undersized tapping electrodes differ from standard tapping electrodes?+
Can MISUMI electrodes be used on wire-cut EDM machines?+
Engineering Resources
Need a Custom Quote?
Specify your gate type (submarine/pin-point/tapping), electrode material (OFC/tungsten copper), and required tip dimensions. Pre-shaped electrodes ship same day.