CUT 1000

March 01, 2010

GF AgieCharmilles' CUT 1000 wire EDM is for micromachining and ultraprecision applications. The CUT 1000 uses 0.02mm-dia. wires to impart surface finishes as fine as 0.05µm Ra in continuous operation. The machine is equipped with AC Duo, which makes it possible to work with two wire spools, each with a different wire type, and switch between wires of different diameters automatically. Programmable via the machine control, the forward feed of the wires, just like the threading, takes place automatically and is monitored by patented sensors. GF AgieCharmilles constructed the CUT 1000 with a table design that separates the X and Y axes on a patented monoblock, eliminating mutual interference and tripping errors. A traveling table on the machine bed carries the work tank and moves the workpiece in the X direction exclusively. A second axis slide, also movable in the horizontal plane on the machine frame, accommodates the upper part of the C-frame and moves the wire in the Y direction. This configuration delivers ideal travels, positioning accuracy and taper cutting capability for machining complex, high-precision parts, according to the company. Cut 1000 accommodates workpieces weighing up to 77 lbs. and has X-, Y- and Z-axis travels of 8.66", 6.29" and 3.93", respectively. Additionally, CUT 1000 is equipped with Vision 5, an intuitive control system developed specifically for wire cut EDM that enables flexible data input in accordance with workshop environment.

Related Glossary Terms

  • 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.

  • feed

    feed

    Rate of change of position of the tool as a whole, relative to the workpiece while cutting.

  • threading

    threading

    Process of both external (e.g., thread milling) and internal (e.g., tapping, thread milling) cutting, turning and rolling of threads into particular material. Standardized specifications are available to determine the desired results of the threading process. Numerous thread-series designations are written for specific applications. Threading often is performed on a lathe. Specifications such as thread height are critical in determining the strength of the threads. The material used is taken into consideration in determining the expected results of any particular application for that threaded piece. In external threading, a calculated depth is required as well as a particular angle to the cut. To perform internal threading, the exact diameter to bore the hole is critical before threading. The threads are distinguished from one another by the amount of tolerance and/or allowance that is specified. See turning.

  • wire EDM

    wire EDM

    Process similar to ram electrical-discharge machining except a small-diameter copper or brass wire is used as a traveling electrode. Usually used in conjunction with a CNC and only works when a part is to be cut completely through. A common analogy is wire electrical-discharge machining is like an ultraprecise, electrical, contour-sawing operation.