The GF AgieCharmilles CUT 1000 is an advanced wire machine designed specifically for micro-machining and super-precision applications. It replaces the older AC Vertex 1 machine.
The CUT 1000 has X, Y and Z-axis travels of 220 mm by 160 mm by 100 mm; can take workpieces up to 35kg in weight, and can achieve taper cuts of +/- 3°over 80 mm (height).
Other features include the CUT 1000's new 'touch screen' remote control that allows operators to input and select data (ie axis movement, measuring cycles etc.), much more quickly – significantly reducing time spent on job set-ups as a consequence.
The CUT 1000 has been re-designed from the bottom up. A new, heavily reinforced and rigid machine base with slide blocks run on roller guide rails positioned directly on the monobloc; X-axis and Y-axis guideways are separate, thereby eliminating mutual interference and tripping errors; and sophisticated and precise integrated measuring systems all ensure high positional accuracy (+/- 1 micron, and outstanding, homogenous surface finishes (Ra 0.05 µm).
The machine, like the AC Vertex 1 it replaces, is equipped with GF AgieCharmilles' revolutionary 'DUO' wire technology. 'DUO' wire technology helps manufacturers in a number of different ways.
The principal benefits from the technology are improved productivity, increased accuracy and greater manufacturing flexibility.
DUO wire machines (like the CUT 1000) are equipped with 2 wiire spools and can use different diameter wires for different machining operations. The transfer between these different wires occurs automatically and is monitored and controlled by patented sensors.
This means that larger diameter (and cheaper brass) wires can be used for main cuts, where the emphasis is on high stock removal, while for machining intricate details (ie tight internal corner radii), and for fine finishing operations – smaller (0.05mm) diameter wires can are used.
Using the machine's F module (for very fine wires), new opportunities in micro-machining (eg medical, electronics etc.), can be exploited with wires of 0.02 mm (diameter) being used to achieve internal radii of 0.015 mm.