To enhance the manufacture of technically challenging moulds from hardened stainless steel, Ledwell Plastics has invested in a new Sodick AD35L spark erosion machine from Sodi-Tech EDM. This advanced die-sink EDM machine provides the speed and accuracy required to reduce costs and enhance precision, while also offering low electrode wear and the necessary reliability to facilitate unmanned overnight operations.

“Our toolroom makes moulds from many different materials, everything from aluminium through to hardened stainless steel,” explains managing director Benn Simms. “Recently, however, we were working almost exclusively with the latter material in the production of very small and intricate moulds, a trend that looked set to continue for some time. The problem was our existing die-sink EDM capability, which was somewhat antiquated, meaning we had issues with accuracy and breakdowns that were impacting project timescales and costing a lot in repairs.”

As a result, Ledwell Plastics sought a new die-sink EDM that could work to tolerances of less than 0.025 mm. In addition, the highly technical, hardened stainless steel moulds require a large amount of sparking, so fast processing speed was another factor high on the wish list.

“We looked at existing spark eroders, but after undertaking some research and speaking to other Sodick users, we settled on the AD35L,” says Simms. “During an on-site demonstration at Sodi-Tech EDM we could see that the machine’s performance was particularly impressive with its high-speed linear motors.

“Our new Sodick allows us to run overnight, unlike our previous machine, which we could never trust in that regard, particularly with blind components/features that are difficult to flush,” he continues. “The high-speed linear technology of the AD35L evacuates the cavities much better with its enhanced flow of dielectric fluid.”

For further information
www.sodi-techedm.co.uk