Revolutionising Mould Tool Manufacturing: PEMTec's Precision Electrochemical Machining Comes to the UK & Ireland via Rainford Precision

The mould and die industry faces ever-increasing demands for precision, repeatability, and cost-efficiency, particularly when producing high-volume components with intricate geometries.

Rainford Precision Machines Limited, a trusted name in ultra-precision engineering since 1991, has now partnered with PEMTec, bringing their groundbreaking Precision Electrochemical Metal Machining (PECM) technology to the UK and Ireland.

This advancement offers a transformative alternative to traditional EDM, especially for repetitive features or mass production applications.

What is PEMTec PECM Technology?

PEMTec’s PECM or “Pemming”is a non-contact, non-thermal machining process that uses electrochemical dissolution to shape conductive materials with sub-micron accuracy and exceptional surface finishes (as fine as 0.03µm Ra). Unlike EDM processes, which relies on electrical sparks to erode material, PECM employs a controlled electrochemical reaction, eliminating heat-affected zones, micro-cracks, with no tool wear.

Key Advantages Over Sinker EDM

Superior Surface Quality & No Thermal Damage

EDM, while precise, can leave a recast layer and micro-cracks due to its thermal process. PECM produces burr-free, stress-free surfaces ideal for mould cavities, reducing or eliminating post-polishing processes.

Higher Productivity for Repetitive Features

For high-volume parts (e.g., multi-cavity moulds or textured surfaces), PECM outperforms EDM in speed and consistency. Its multi-electrode setups allow simultaneous machining of identical features, drastically cutting cycle times.

Longer Tool Life & Lower Costs

EDM electrodes degrade over time, requiring frequent replacement. PEMTec’s cathodes experience virtually no wear, making the process more economical for long production runs.

Exceptional Precision for Complex Geometries

PECM excels in machining thin walls, sharp edges, and micro-features without distortion, a limitation for EDM when handling delicate geometries.

Material Versatility

While both methods work on conductive materials, PECM handles hardened steels, titanium, and superalloys more efficiently, with no risk of tool deflection or feed marks.

Why This Matters for the Mould & Die Industry

For Mould and Die Manufacturers, PEMTec’s technology is a game-changer:

Injection Moulds: Achieve flawless cavity finishes, reducing ejection issues and improving part quality.

Die Casting Tools: Extend tool life with wear-resistant surfaces, lowering downtime for refurbishment.

Micro-Moulding: Perfect for medical or electronics components where surface integrity is critical.

Partnering with Rainford Precision

As the exclusive UK/Ireland agent for PEMTec, Rainford Precision combines decades of micro-machining expertise with hands-on support. Their team offers:

• Process optimisation for mould tool applications.
• Cost studies and test work to prove process capability and quality.
• Tooling consultancy to maximise PECM’s advantages over traditional EDM.

Next Steps for GTMA Members

To explore how PEMTec can enhance your mould tool production, contact Rainford Precision for a technical consultation. This technology isn’t just an alternative—it’s the future of precision manufacturing.

"With PECM, we’re empowering manufacturers to leapfrog the limitations of conventional machining processes—delivering faster, finer, and more cost-effective solutions for the mould and die sector."

— Miles Evans, Managing Director, Rainford Precision Machines Ltd.

For further details, visit Rainford Precision or reach out to the GTMA for tailored insights.