Set up in 2012 to deliver precision tooling to companies in the north of England, Go Tools Ltd is a specialist manufacturer of precision die-cast dies and injection mould tools for a multitude of sectors. With an unwavering commitment to quality and service, the company has invested in high-end machine tools from the Engineering Technology Group (ETG).

One point of concern was an ageing EDM machine.Recalling this, Go Tools technical director Steve Barrowcliff says: “Our old EDM machine had inconsistent cut quality and poor precision levels that made us rely on the expertise of our staff to retain tolerance and surface-finish requirements. As an old machine, it was also unreliable and a potential concern due to the amount of EDM work going through the shop floor. We investigated the market and the Mitsubishi MV1200R wire EDM was the perfect fit for our business. The programming platform of the Mitsubishi EDM was 10 times better, as was the accuracy and the speed of cutting. Simultaneously, we needed a spark erosion EDM, so we also invested in the OPS Ingersoll Gantry Eagle 400 – both machines were the result of the technical expertise and support of ETG.”

This first delve into Mitsubishi EDM technology proved a resounding success with productivity, reliability and quality improving significantly. So, when the company found its Mitsubishi MV1200R EDM at capacity some years later, the company naturally went out and bought another machine that was the same as the first.

“Our first Mitsubishi MV1200R improved our cycle times by more than 50% and the precision levels and surface finishes were impeccable, so when it came to buying a second machine, we didn’t need to look anywhere else,” concludes Barrowcliff.
For further information www.engtechgroup.com

When it is seen how Protolabs uses a System 3R pallet system in the ever-tougher ‘lead time race’, it is easy to see why the company asserts that it is the world’s fastest supplier of both CNC milled and injection moulded components.

Regarding speed, operational reliability and repeatable precision, Protomold and Firstcut, the two elements in the company’s operations, both benefit greatly from System 3R’s Macro system. This applies equally to the manufacture of moulding tools and the milling of components.

All workpieces are mounted on Macro pallets. Thanks to the properties inherently offered by the patented 3Refix system’s guaranteed positioning, Protolabs can move the pallets from one machining process to another without jeopardising precision, no matter how many such moves the total process requires.

“Over the past four years, System 3R has undoubtedly helped us cut lead times considerably, if not to say dramatically,” reveals Lee Ball, production director.“Speed is the essence of our mission to supply customers with injection moulded or machined components. Protomold is really fast in supplying injection moulded parts to customers. We would not be able to produce moulding tools fast enough if we couldn’t first make the necessary graphite electrodes. Macro is with us all the way. Furthermore, the system is so easy to use.”

By combining the production processes in its Haas CNC milling machines and Agie-Charmilles die-sink EDM machines, Protolabs can rapidly supply parts made in the desired material. This is vital not only in each prototype project but also in the production of test pieces and the reproduction of unavailable, obsolete or faulty components.
For further information www.system3r.com

Stirling-based CA Models, a specialist in high-quality, fast-turnaround metal and plastic additive manufacturing, is using new investment in two wire-erosion machines from Sodi-Tech EDM to optimise the process of removing 3D-printed parts from their build platforms.

“We had two Sodick wire EDM machines that were still running well but getting on in years,” explains founder and managing director Clark Campbell. “I felt it was the right time to bring in some new technology for the next decade. The new Sodick machines are even more accurate and faster. At CA Models we are in the ‘quick’ business, where just about every client wants their parts yesterday. That’s why we need an in-house resource when it comes to wire erosion. Every time we have a really complex, accurate part to produce, the clock is ticking.”

He adds: “I think Sodick technology is brilliant and the reliability of the machines warrants some loyalty in my opinion,” says Mr Campbell. “I went to an open day at Sodi-Tech EDM’s Warwick facility and was really impressed with the latest machines, which will play their part in a big way over the coming years.”

Installed in September 2022, the new Sodick ALC600G and ALC800G wire EDM machines are already busy.

“For example, take a titanium build platform with 14 motorsport parts on the base,” says Mr Campbell. “When the printing process is complete, the entire platform goes into our furnace for heat treatment for 24 hours, after which we wire-off all the components from base plate using our Sodick technology. As the wire cuts so finely we do not lose any dimensional accuracy in the parts. Furthermore, the machines wire so quickly that we get a head start in finishing the components.”
For further information www.sodi-techedm.co.uk