GF Machining Solutions showcased at Eastec 2021 equipment for mold and die and job-shop applications that the company says can increase production and reduce energy consumption.
The equipment on display included the 5-axis Mikron MILL S 200 U and the Form E 350 compact die sinking EDM.
The Mikron MILL S 200 U combines linear, rotating and swiveling axes that the company says allows shops to shorten production time with a single part clamping and 5-axis machining strategy. The machine also features automated machine calibration (AMC) and cooling system also ensure the highest precision possible and superior part surface finishes to reduce the need for secondary manual part polishing operations.
GF Machining Solutions also displayed the Form E 350 EDM, which the company says is the smallest sinker EDM footprint on the market. Its sturdy C-axis construction, cross table and cast iron frame offer high stability and force reduction, which helps maintain a precise spark gap between the part and the electrode. Regardless of part weight or dielectric volume, the machine delivers consistent accuracy. Integrated glass scales preserve long-term, repeatability and eliminate the need for recalibration as well as any errors found in traditional screw systems due to backlash and wear.
The latest-generation Intelligent Speed Power Generator (ISPG) on the Form E350 excels at superior surface finishes and precision applications in any conductive material. It overcomes common process challenges for copper electrodes, including electrode wear induced by electrical discharge. ISPG improves machining speeds by 40 percent and reduces corner wear by 50 percent.
More information can be found at www.gfms.com.
Related Glossary Terms
- backlash
backlash
Reaction in dynamic motion systems where potential energy that was created while the object was in motion is released when the object stops. Release of this potential energy or inertia causes the device to quickly snap backward relative to the last direction of motion. Backlash can cause a system’s final resting position to be different from what was intended and from where the control system intended to stop the device.
- calibration
calibration
Checking measuring instruments and devices against a master set to ensure that, over time, they have remained dimensionally stable and nominally accurate.
- electrical-discharge machining ( EDM)
electrical-discharge machining ( EDM)
Process that vaporizes conductive materials by controlled application of pulsed electrical current that flows between a workpiece and electrode (tool) in a dielectric fluid. Permits machining shapes to tight accuracies without the internal stresses conventional machining often generates. Useful in diemaking.
- milling machine ( mill)
milling machine ( mill)
Runs endmills and arbor-mounted milling cutters. Features include a head with a spindle that drives the cutters; a column, knee and table that provide motion in the three Cartesian axes; and a base that supports the components and houses the cutting-fluid pump and reservoir. The work is mounted on the table and fed into the rotating cutter or endmill to accomplish the milling steps; vertical milling machines also feed endmills into the work by means of a spindle-mounted quill. Models range from small manual machines to big bed-type and duplex mills. All take one of three basic forms: vertical, horizontal or convertible horizontal/vertical. Vertical machines may be knee-type (the table is mounted on a knee that can be elevated) or bed-type (the table is securely supported and only moves horizontally). In general, horizontal machines are bigger and more powerful, while vertical machines are lighter but more versatile and easier to set up and operate.
- polishing
polishing
Abrasive process that improves surface finish and blends contours. Abrasive particles attached to a flexible backing abrade the workpiece.
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