10,000 Reasons to Consider Additive Manufacturing

MC Machinery Systems marks the sale of its 10,000^th Mitsubishi wire EDM in North America at this year's IMTS show, but a special plaque is far from the only highlight of booth N-6825. Even as the company celebrates the past, it’s looking toward the future with the unveiling of hybrid additive/milling technology that could prove just as revolutionary as EDM. “In the ‘70s, EDM was like magic, and today, laser sintering of powdered metals is viewed in much the same way,” says Greg Langenhorst, technical marketing engineer. “It’s taking away the restrictions of conventional machining.”

Langenhorst emphasizes that research into much-needed new materials is ongoing. However, he and marketing manager Pat Simon say the company is confident that North American manufacturers are ready to take advantage of the new Lumex Avance-25 hybrid machine, offered in partnership with machine tool builder Matsuura. Simon adds that the 10,000-EDM milestone speaks to the company’s focus on the needs of this market and its capability for service and support, both of which were critical factors in getting Matsuura on board in the first place. As was the case with EDMs, the machine is expected to interest moldmakers in particular (although the company is also targeting aerospace and automotive applications).

The purchasers of the aforementioned 10,000 EDM machines will all be listed on a large, commemorative display along one wall (buyers of multiple machines get multiple listings). The 10,000^th went to TNT EDM, a tool and die manufacturer that purchased three MV2400s. Notable features of the MV Series—the company’s latest EDM line—include cylindrical drive technology (an alternative to flat-plate linear motors that is said to provide less heat, cogging and backlash), an improved power supply, and more reliable automatic wire threading in deeper cavities.