From its largest ever stand at EMO, Sodick said it took best-of-breed technology to the exhibition, with European debuts for the ACL400P high accuracy wire EDM and the ALC800G large-capacity premium wire machine. These newcomers were accompanied on the stand by two of Sodick’s most advanced EDM ‘big beasts’, the AG80L die sink and ALC800G wire machine, while automation options were demonstrated by the AG60L die sinker with robot.

The new ALC400P ultra-high-precision wire EDM incorporates as standard an inverter-type dielectric chiller which monitors and maintains the dielectric temperature to within ±1°, minimising the thermal effect inside the work area. An additional thermal sensor is installed inside the work tank for even more accurate temperature control.
As a further benefit, the CNC controller incorporates 2D pitch compensating software which automatically compensates pitch error in positioning every square of 10 x 10 mm. In addition, cross-type roller guides help provide high rigidity, high accuracy and longer life.
Elsewhere on the stand was the new ALC800G large-capacity premium wire EDM, which becomes the largest standard machine in the range with its 1250 x 1020 mm work tank and maximum workpiece weight of 3000 kg.
Incorporating the latest digital innovations in generator technologies and the use of advanced electrode materials, the ALC range provides major advances in cutting speed, accuracy and surface finish – made possible through Sodick’s in-house development and manufacture of all critical technologies, including linear motors, discharge power supply, NC unit, motion controller and ceramics.
For further information www.sodick.org

The Form P 350 die-sink EDMs from GF Machining Solutions feature precision-enhancing qualities and integrated technologies that are said to boost productivity and profitability.

Featuring a compact C-axis construction, fixed table and cast-iron frame, offers stability and force reduction to maintain a precise spark gap between the part and electrode. Regardless of part weight or dielectric volume, the machines deliver consistently high accuracies and surface finishes of Ra 0.1. Furthermore, integrated glass scales preserve repeatability and eliminate the need for recalibration and errors due to backlash and wear.
GFMS Form P 350 machines are equipped with the company’s intelligent power generator and Tecform module, which optimises each pulse to reduce electrode wear and generate high-quality surface finishes. Segment-dedicated technology eliminates the need to adjust the generator’s parameters.
The company’s iQ technologies control the erosion of graphite and copper electrodes, and help reduce costs. Real-time spark characteristic analysis and setting adjustment for pulse efficiency ensure wear-free spark erosion, precision, efficiency and greater control over the cost of the electrode, says the company.
Of note, the console’s AC Form HMI is based on Windows. Interactive graphics illustrate operations such as measurement and machining cycles for ease of use, while providing descriptions of machining targets, automatic selection of optimal technologies and dynamic parameter adaption.
GFMS Form P 350 machines are supplied with a four-position linear tool changer for System 3R macro tooling. An optional rotary tool changer can be specified that increases the number of electrodes to 160. The machines can also be paired with a System 3R WorkPartner 1+ robot for unattended night and weekend operations.
Offering X-, Y- and Z-axis travels of 350 x 250 x 300 mm, the machine accommodates workpieces up to 700 x 460 x 275 mm in size.
For further information www.gfms.com/uk