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

At Mattighofen, Austria-based GBM Kunststofftechnik und Formenbau GmbH, a newly installed Mitsubishi MV2400R Connect is making a genuine difference to this forward-thinking mould shop. Mitsubishi EDM machines are available in the UK from HK Technologies.

In total, some 35 injection moulding machines can be found in the halls of GBM. Be it parts for cars, medical devices or telecommunications equipment, there is very little that GBM cannot mould in plastic.
“Among the areas that is currently developing very strongly is vehicle charging equipment,” reveals managing director Roland Barth. “Extremely complex shapes are created for this, to produce wall boxes for example.”
As a result, the company recently purchased a Mitsubishi MV2400R Connect with travels of 600 x 400 x 310 mm in X, Y and Z, which is being used almost exclusively to produce injection moulds. In addition to machine’s fast cutting speed, the quality of the surfaces is an important factor for the Austrian firm.
“For us, the investment was important so that we could produce moulds faster than ever before, with surfaces that do not have to be reworked,” says Barth. “We want to continue growing and the machine will support us in our efforts.”
Barth deliberately opted for a larger machine, which is also equipped with the new D-CUBES interface. “Here I see a lot of potential for exploiting totally new possibilities in the future, particularly when producing moulds for our injection machines.”
For further information www.mitsubishi-edm.de/en

Erowa’s recently enhanced LoadMaster range, which is available in the UK from REM Systems, builds on the ability to offer the automatic loading and unloading of workpieces up to 4000 kg.

Equipped with a 360° swivel function, any position in the magazine and on the machine tool table can be reliably reached. According to the company, customers equipped with an Erowa system can typically increase productivity by a factor of five using various manufacturing technologies, including die-sink EDM.
Raw material billets, part-machined components and cast workpieces can be transferred using LoadMaster thanks to its novel kinetic system with very limited space requirement. The magazines are designed to stack vertically, with the storage positions arranged over two, three or four levels, saving on floor space and subsequently cost. Each level is optimally configured for typical workpiece sizes.
REM Systems’ managing director Ian Holbeche says: “The new LoadMaster allows manufacturing businesses that produce larger, and therefore heavier components, to increase their productivity. Typically, this might be large press-tool plates, multi-cavity injection moulds, valves and pipe fittings, as well as structural and propulsion components for aircraft.”
Operator set-up stations are integral components of LoadMaster production lines, with access via sliding doors or walk-in stations. Versions are available featuring lifting units, with rotating and tilting table, or with indexing table. The set-up positions are also accessible via overhead crane.
Erowa’s overall process control system assists the operator in the daily production flow, with clear displays of system status. Notably, the transfer unit moves between the magazines and machines on solid rails, while the grippers optimally support various application scenarios: ‘TwinFork’ double grippers for faster chip-to-chip times or ‘MultiFork’ end effector for the loading and unloading of different pallet sizes.
For further information https://remsystems.co.uk/