GF Machining Solutions Celebrates 70 Years of EDM Technology

Seventy years ago, the invention of electrical discharge machining (EDM) revolutionized manufacturing worldwide. AGIE and Charmilles pioneered this technology and exist today under the umbrella of GF Machining Solutions.

EDM has evolved to offer precision in the production of molds, dies and complex geometric parts. Over the decades, constructive interaction between EDM and electronics has led to significant advancements. Notable milestones such as the integration of the planar transistor, integrated circuits and the microprocessor all were critical to enhancing EDM’s capabilities.

On EDM’s 70^th anniversary, GF Machining Solutions looks back on its history and promises its customers continuous development in the future. The company introduced the first industrial die-sinking machine in 1954 and the first wire-cutting EDM machines three years later.

Today, EDM is an integral part of manufacturing processes across industries that rely on precise intricate shapes, including aerospace, automotive, medical and electronics. GF Machining Solutions has been at the forefront of this technology, aiming to improve energy and resource efficiency, and to introduce digital solutions to enhance productivity and precision in wire EDM machining.

Recently, GF Machining Solutions released Form eCAM, an EDM CAM software designed to support operators in their daily work. The software uses CAD geometry to describe the machining process and can extract the exact volume for erosion. With this increased knowledge, the software can create a suited set of technological parameters that prevent potential human errors and can increase efficiency on the shop floor.

Another innovation is control of current consumption. Developed and assembled in Switzerland, the IPG (Intelligent Power Generator) is included in various GF Machining Solutions die-sinking and wire-cutting machines. The fully digital and resonant switching generator enables enhanced performance with minimal power consumption.

Since 1802, GF Machining Solutions has been committed to continuous improvement and innovation so customers can manufacture products that improve daily life. Historic involvement in the invention and ongoing refinement of EDM technology has enabled the company to create current approaches to various manufacturing challenges.