Cut P 550 Pro has more than 600 pre-programmed cutting processes, covering parts of various materials, such as steel, cemented carbide, copper, aluminum, titanium, polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and graphite.
GF Machining Solutions' new Cut P 550 Pro Electric Discharge Machine (EDM) features intuitive Uniqua Human Machine Interface (HMI), Intelligent Generator (IPG) technology and advanced Quadrax machine tool design.
The new Uniqua HMI has a 19" vertical touch screen, full keyboard and mouse. For maximum compatibility, it is said that Uniqua supports old file types from various EDM manufacturers, and can create, import, modify and execute the sequence (based on ISO) and Object oriented (dynamic) programs of previous versions of VISION and AC Cut HMI 2. With these functions, Uniqua works in integration with the main CAD/CAM programs.
According to reports, using IPG technology, Cut P 550 Pro produces a surface finish of Ra 0.08 µm, and the accuracy is improved through integrated thermal regulation, enabling the machine to achieve a positioning accuracy of ±2 µm.
In order to protect the machine's x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, u-axis and v-axis, its linear scale and rotary encoder form a dual measurement system. In the event of a collision, the system will distinguish between linear encoders and rotary encoders, and the energy absorption system will automatically stop the axis without damaging the machine or workpiece. This comprehensive protection is suitable for machine speeds up to 3 m/min.
The Quadrax mechanical system keeps the cut P 550 Pro's table, working tank, dielectric fluid, and workpiece stationary, allowing the machine to accommodate heavier parts. Independent u/v and x/y axes with equal length (x = u stroke; y = v stroke), constant, small mass, and independent movement are said to produce large and precise cone cuts. In addition, it is reported that the Rhenocast machine base has low thermal conductivity and vibration damping.
Cut P 550 Pro's automation solutions include automatic block management (ASM), automatic block welding (ASW) and retractable Renishaw mechanical probe options for measuring the flatness of the workpiece and the position on the machine table. System 3R’s scalable automation options include the WorkPartner 1+ compact robot, which can feed up to two wire-cut EDM machines for more than two days to maintain unattended production.
Cut P 550 Pro has more than 600 pre-programmed cutting processes, which can cover various parts with heights from less than 0.04" to 15.75" (less than 1 mm to 400 mm) and weights up to 3,307 pounds (1,500 kg), in steel and hard In materials such as high-quality alloys, copper, aluminum, titanium, polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and graphite.
Wires with diameters ranging from 0.003" to 0.013" (0.07 mm to 0.33 mm) are available. Based on GF Machining Solutions' Spark Track technology, the ISPS (Intelligent Spark Protection System) on each machine can prevent disconnection. The company's smart iWire process detects changes in the contour of the workpiece and adjusts the spool unwinding speed accordingly to reduce wire consumption.
Modular workpiece fixtures played a vital role in winning the larger and more difficult wire EDM jobs in this shop.
The processing work undertaken by Hummingbird is too small for most shops. In fact, hummingbirds try not to deal with it. In order to accurately machine the smallest parts, this factory relies on processes that are as non-interfering as possible.
The promise of running wire EDM for long periods of time without too much attention from the operator is tempting, but many stores never managed to achieve this goal. Mark Cicchetti, EDM Technical Director of Absolute Machine Tool's Accutex EDM product line, provided tips for achieving this goal.