Major Comparisons

WJC vs AWJC: what is the key difference?

WJC uses water only; AWJC adds abrasive particles.

AWJC vs AJM: what is the key difference?

AWJC uses water plus abrasives; AJM uses dry gas plus abrasives.

AJM vs AFM: what is the key difference?

AJM projects abrasives in gas; AFM forces abrasive polymer media through passages.

EDM vs ECM: what is the removal mechanism?

EDM uses thermal spark erosion; ECM uses electrochemical anodic dissolution.

EDM vs ECM: which has tool wear and a heat

affected zone?

EDM vs wire EDM: what shape is produced?

EDM uses a formed electrode to create cavities; wire EDM cuts profiles using a moving wire.

EBM vs LBM: what environment is required?

EBM requires a vacuum; LBM generally operates in air or with assist gas.

LBM vs PAC: which is more precise?

LBM is more precise; PAC is faster for thicker conductive metals.

PAC vs OFC: what is the main mechanism?

PAC melts using ionized gas; OFC primarily oxidizes ferrous metal after heating.

Chemical milling vs chemical blanking: what thickness is removed?

Milling removes partial thickness; blanking cuts completely through.

Chemical engraving vs PCM: what is the main purpose?

Engraving makes shallow markings; PCM makes highly precise intricate flat parts.

Which processes require an electrically conductive workpiece?

ECM, ECD, ECG, EDM, wire EDM, and PAC.

Which processes are especially suitable for hard brittle materials?

USM and AJM; chemical blanking can also process brittle thin materials.

Which thermal process is best known for micro

holes with very high depth to diameter ratio?

Which process is best for internal passage polishing?

AFM.