Wire EDM Supports Intuitive, Highly Productive Operations 

GF Machining Solutions’ CUT P 550 Pro wire EDM features a highly intuitive Uniqua human/machine interface (HMI), intelligent power generator (IPG) technology and advanced Qaudrex machine design. All CUT P Pro machines are also well suited for every application, according to the company, provide increased productivity and offer several automation options for lights-out production.

The Uniqua HMI delivers optimal functionality and ergonomics in a 19" vertical touchscreen, full keyboard and mouse. For complete compatibility, Uniqua supports legacy file types from various EDM manufacturers and can create, import, modify and execute sequential (ISO-based) and object-oriented (dynamic) programs from previous versions of VISION and AC CUT HMI 2. With such capabilities, Uniqua works integrally with major CAD/CAM programs.

Alternately, the IPG technology enables the wire EDM to generate surface finishes as smooth as Ra 0.08 µm and heightens accuracy using integrated thermal regulation that allows the machine to achieve positioning precision of ±2 µm.

To protect the machine’s X, Y, Z, U and V axes, CUT P 550 Pro’s linear scales and rotary encoders form a double measuring system. In the event of a collision, the system differentiates between the linear and the rotary encoder, and an energy absorber system automatically stops the axes without damage to machine or workpiece. This full protection applies at machine speeds of up to 3 m/min.

The Qaudrex mechanical system enables the CUT P 550 Pro’s table, work tank and dielectric liquid to remain stationary, as well as the workpiece, which enables the machine to accommodate heavier parts. Independent U/V and X/Y axes with equal length (X = U travel; Y = V travel), constant, lower mass and completely independent movement produce large, precise tapered cuts. Additionally, a Rhenocast machine base offers lower thermal conductivity and vibration damping.

Automation solutions for the CUT P 550 Pro include automatic slug management (ASM), automatic slug welding (ASW) and the option of a retractable Renishaw mechanical touch probe to measure workpiece planarity and position on the machine’s worktable. Scalable automation options from System 3R include a WorkPartner 1+ compact robot that can feed up to two wire-cutting EDM machines for more than two days to maintain unattended production.

All CUT P Pro Series machines optimize production for electronics, automotive, medical and mold and die manufacturers with more than 600 pre-programmed cutting processes. On the CUT P 550 Pro, these cover a wide range of parts from less than 0.04"-15.75" (less than 1-400 mm) in height and weights up to 3,307 lb (1,500 kg), in materials such as steel, carbide, copper, aluminum, titanium, polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and graphite.

Wires are available from 0.003"-0.013" (0.07-0.33 mm) diameters. Based on the company’s Spark Track technology, the ISPS (Intelligent Spark Protection System) on each machine reportedly prevents wire breakage. The company’s intelligent iWire process also detects variations in the workpiece profile and adapts wire spool unwinding speed accordingly to reduce wire consumption.