Next Generation Wire EDMS Are Smaller, Easier to Install
DUO series machines from Makino enhance performance, accuracy, speed, ease of operation and maintenance by using dual wire guide options, a DuoSpark generator, dual anchored ball screws and dual high pressure flush pumps.
Posted: July 11, 2013
The company’s patented DuoSpark generator uses a two-step, adjustable discharge waveform that provides greater control over the machining spark gap. This technology improves energizer life, increases cutting speeds by up to 30 percent, and reduces wire consumption by as much as 40 percent compared with previous technologies. With a choice of Split Precision or PICO Precision wire guides, this added performance can be realized in nearly every EDM application.
The series’ dual high-pressure flush pumps provide independent control of upper and lower head flushing jets. The pumps can provide pressure up to 290 psi to improve roughing speeds and aid in producing superior surface finishes. By circulating through two pumps, one for each machine head, the DUO is able to improve efficiency over wire EDMs containing only a single pump, reduce mechanical failures, and achieve finer finishes.
The pumps are independently controlled and monitored through the controller, allowing faster adaptation to changes during machining operations and providing higher quality parts in shorter cycle times. This design provides its greatest advantages during detached nozzle applications (poor flush), and further improves the performance of Makino’s HEAT technology.
With dual anchored ball screws, the DUO series provides a rigid construction for long-term sustained accuracy and precision. Backed up by a 10 year/20,000 hour ball screw guarantee, the DUO Series is built for long term repeatability and reliability.
Other dual features include dual work tank doors to accommodate loading of large work pieces and work area access without draining and refilling the work tank, dual feedback to assure accuracy and repeatability of movement and positioning over a long period of time, unsubmerged dual filter banks with automatic water evacuation, dual control operation that allows use of either the mouse and keyboard or the full function remote hand box, and dual head protect functions for crash protection capability to help reduce or eliminate damage caused by unexpected collisions.
Improvements in design provide ease of operation and maintenance for operators. New features to the design include an air actuated access door for easy access to the work zone.
The work tank opening has been widened and the knee plate removed to provide extended operating space. Improved maintenance features include centralized manual greasing points and external filter casing for easier filter cleaning.
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