Wire EDM Series Supports Precision in Complex Parts

Introduced in North America by GF Machining Solutions, the AgieCharmilles Cut X series of Wire EDMs is designed for precision machining of complex parts in high-volume production runs. Potential applications include stamping tools and multi-cavity molds for electronics, information and communication applications, as well as micro components for medical devices and watches.

The Series includes the CUT 1000 X, CUT 1000 X OilTech, CUT 2000 X, CUT 2000 X OilTech and CUT 3000 X. The Cut 1000 X and Cut 1000 X OilTech deliver pitch accuracy of ±1.0 microns over 200 × 140 mm, and M-shape form accuracy of ±1.0 microns. The Cut 2000 X, Cut 2000 X OilTech and Cut 3000 X deliver pitch accuracy of ±1.5 microns over 340 × 240 mm (460 × 320 mm for Cut 3000 X size), and form accuracy of ±1.5 microns.

According to the company, this precision is supported by adapted mechanical structures that ensure high accuracy and thermal stability, as well as dedicated machine calibration and testing. Specific features include high-precision accuracies, short measurement loops, dual measurement on all axes, consistent isolation of the EDM area from heat sources, and a submerged work area. Each machine undergoes a calibration routine that involves machining a large number of holes in a plate, then using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) to determine the absolute position of each hole’s center. The resulting data is reloaded into the machine’s CNC to ensure pitch and positioning accuracy.

The company’s two-spool automatic wire changer is designed for fast, automatic changing between different wires for initial cuts and finishing cuts. Integrated wire disposal also contributes to reduced processing time.

The machines also feature an on-board job management system that’s said to simplify inserting priority jobs into the queue. The Integrated Vision Unit (IVU) Advance uses an embedded camera and backlight on the lower arm of the machine to perform presetting, in-process measurements and scanning of the machined contour. The series also features a Threading Expert retractable device to perform wire threading in difficult conditions.