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Auto Wire Changer Optimizes Wire EDM Process
The third generation of automatic wire changers is available for GF AgieCharmilles’ CUT 2000 and CUT 3000 wire-cutting EDM machines.
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The third generation of automatic wire changers is available for GF AgieCharmilles’ CUT 2000 and CUT 3000 wire-cutting EDM machines. It enables operators to switch between different wire diameter sizes and types, optimizing both roughing and finishing operations, and reducing production costs.
For example, the wire changer enables manufacturers to use a larger-diameter, less-costly, brass wire for rough passes and high stock removal and switch to a smaller-diameter wire for intricate details and fine-finishing passes.
The CUT 2000 and CUT 3000 machines use universal wire-guide systems to accommodate wires ranging from 0.01" to 0.002" (0.30 to 0.05 mm) for micromachining and super-precision applications. They also feature automatic wire thread and re-thread capabilities for lights-out production, Vision 5 numerical control, and a digital Intelligent Power Generator and Variocut for achieving surface finishes as fine as Ra 0.05 µm.
The CUT 2000 and CUT 3000 machines use universal wire-guide systems to accommodate wires ranging from 0.01" to 0.002" (0.30 to 0.05 mm) for micromachining and super-precision applications. They also feature automatic wire thread and re-thread capabilities for lights-out production, Vision 5 numerical control, and a digital Intelligent Power Generator and Variocut for achieving surface finishes as fine as Ra 0.05 µm.
The compact EDM machines have rigid bases and precise, integrated measuring systems for repeatable accuracy. They also are designed to manage and minimize thermal distortion generated by machine sources such as generators and pumps, which have their own individual cooling systems.
The CUT 2000 machine features X-, Y- and Z-axis travels of 13.8" × 9.8" × 10.1" (350 × 250 × 256 mm), respectively. It can accommodate submerged workpieces as heavy as 440 lbs (200 kg) and unsubmerged workpieces as heavy as 992 lbs (451 kg). The machine also achieves taper cuts of ±30 degrees over 3.93" (100 mm) in height.
The larger CUT 3000 machine features X-, Y- and Z-axis travels measuring 19.7" × 13.8" × 10.1" (500 × 350 × 256 mm), respectively. It can accommodate submerged workpieces as heavy as 880 lbs (400 kg) and unsubmerged workpieces as heavy as 1,763 lbs (801 kg). The machine also achieves taper cuts of ±30 degrees over 3.93" (100 mm) in height.
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