Case Study: University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria achieves copper EDM electrode production and advanced R&D capability with Markforged Metal X

University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - Customer Case Study

The University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s Integrated and Advanced Manufacturing Research Group aimed to develop copper EDM electrodes using Markforged Metal FFF technology. To enable R&D on high-performance metal parts and complex geometries for spark erosion applications, the team selected Markforged Metal X and Mark Two printers to produce copper electrodes for electrical discharge machining.

Markforged supplied the Metal X and Mark Two systems and materials, enabling the group to print functional copper electrodes and run density, electrical conductivity, X‑ray EDS, SEM and spark erosion tests. Results showed Metal FFF electrodes deliver material removal rates and surface roughness comparable to conventional electrolytic copper and similar density/conductivity ranges, while exhibiting higher electrode wear due to internal porosity. The Markforged solution expanded rapid‑tooling capability, broadened research opportunities, and increased staff technical capacity at the university.

University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Pablo Rubén Bordón Pérez

Industrial Engineer and Lecturer