GF AgieCharmilles’ launches compact Cut 2000 and 3000 wire EDM machines

Designed for micro-machining and super precision applications, the Cut 2000 and 3000, have integral sophisticated glass scale measuring systems. They are also built to manage and minimise thermal distortion with all machine heat-generating sources (generator, pumps, etc) having their own separate cooling systems. The AgieCharmilles Cut 2000 and 3000 have a single, universal wire guidance system allowing the use of all wire diameters, from 0.30 down to 0.05 mm. The automatic wire thread/re-thread capability that facilitates unmanned, lights-out production is further advantage. The Cut machines are equipped with GF AgieCharmilles' third generation automatic wire changer which means that customers can use larger diameter (and cheaper brass) for main cuts where the emphasis is on high stock removal, whereas for machining intricate details – such as tight internal corner radii, and for fine finishing operations – smaller (0.05 mm) diameter wires can are used. The machines are equipped with the IPG (digital) generator that monitors, controls and adjusts the energy of each spark to deliver homogenous surface finishes. The incorporation of a Smoothsurf module produces a mirror finish and can eliminate secondary polishing operations. Both machines use the powerful and flexible CNC Vision 5 control system. Supplied with a number of Smart modules, the control eases and speeds up job set-ups and ensures trouble-free machining process, says AgieCharmilles. The Cut 2000 has X, Y, and Z travels of 350 by 250 by 256 mm; can take workpieces up to 200 kg (with bath) and 450 kg (without bath) in weight. It can achieve taper cuts of ± 30º over 100 mm (height). Travels on the larger Cut 3000 are 500 by 350 by 256 mm respectively and it can handle workpieces up to 400 kg (with bath) and 800 kg (without bath). Cutting speed for both machines (using 0.30 mm diameter wire) is 300 mm2/min and Ra 0.05µm surface finishes can be achieved.