AgieCharmilles EDM Aims to Eliminate Pitch and Positioning Errors

GF Machining Solutions’ X series is designed for multicavity molds, electronics and small components.

The CUT 1000 X wire EDM.

The CUT 1000 X wire EDM.

GF Machining Solutions’ (GFMS) AgieCharmilles X series of wire-cutting EDM are designed to eliminate pitch and positioning errors.

The CUT 1000 X and CUT 1000 X OilTech deliver pitch accuracy of ±1.0 μm over 200 mm by 140 mm and M-shape form accuracy of ±1.0 μm.

The CUT 2000 X, CUT 2000 X OilTech and CUT 3000 X deliver pitch accuracy of ±1.5 μm over 340 mm by 240 mm (460 mm by 320 mm for CUT 3000 X size) and form accuracy of ±1.5 μm.

Prior to installation, GF Machining Solutions’ experts machine a large number of holes in a plate, then use a high-precision coordinate measuring machine (CMM) to measure the position of each hole’s center. 

The CUT 2000 X wire EDM.

The CUT 2000 X wire EDM.

The CMM results are then reloaded into the computer numerical control (CNC) of the X series machine. That correction of the CNC is intended to ensure perfect pitch and positioning accuracy from the very first die or mold.

These EDMs are designed for a variety of applications, including:

  • Stamping tools and multi-cavity molds
  • Electronics
  • Small components for the medical and watchmaking industries

In addition, the X series machines offer manufacturers a wide range of features designed to enhance quality and productivity.

GFMS’ proprietary automatic wire changer (AWC) uses a two-wire spool for large-diameter or premium wire for the main cut and then switches to smaller wire for finishing cuts. An integrated wire-chopper also serves to improve productivity.

The onboard Job Management System allows operators to insert urgent jobs as well as transfer jobs between different machines.

THREADINGEXPERT is a retractable device that drives the wire from the upper guide to the start hole (upper surface).

The CUT 3000 X wire EDM.

The CUT 3000 X wire EDM.

The Integrated Vision Unit uses an embedded charge-coupled device (CCD) camera linked to a backlight installed on the lower arm of the machine. This allows pre-setting, in-process local measurements and scanning of the contour machined.

For more information, visit the GFMS website.