Automation-Ready EDM Speeds Up Additive Part Separation While Preserving Part Integrity
By blending horizontal wire orientation, a rotary axis, and an integrated basket to catch separated parts, the AgieCharmilles CUT AM 500 from GF Machining Solutions facilitates additive manufacturing (AM). The combination of features supports the part, allows for easy part handling, prevents part damage, and offers full automation readiness.
Posted: February 10, 2020
Designed to complement additive manufacturing (AM), the AgieCharmilles CUT AM 500 from GF Machining Solutions (Lincolnshire, IL) is an automation-ready alternative to standard EDM equipment or a band saw to separate parts from build plates. In addition to improving overall efficiency, the horizontal wire EDM resolves a number of quality barriers created by the use of band saws, including but not limited to geometric inaccuracy, loss of workpiece material (kerf), and damage to the part. Ideal for risk-averse industries such as aerospace and medical technology, the CUT AM 500 maintains the integrity of the part by avoiding part contamination and damage.
Accommodating parts up to 20 in (510 mm) x 20 in (510 mm) x 20 in (510 mm) (including the base plate) and up to 1,102 lb (500 kg), the CUT AM 500 uses 0.2 mm diameter wire to separate parts from the build platform at a maximum cutting speed of 300 mm2/m. It delivers ±0.1 mm accuracy and surface roughness of less than 6 µm. By blending horizontal wire orientation, a rotary axis, and an integrated basket to catch separated parts, the machine creates a robust process that supports the part, allows for easy part handling, prevents part damage, and offers full automation readiness.
Rapid wire technology and the machine’s generator combine to process at least three times faster than standard EDM.
The machine’s layout is designed to accommodate integration of a clamping system for easier clamping and referencing. As additive manufacturing evolves into mass production, automated AM processes will be needed. System 3R, a GF Machining Solutions brand, specializes in tooling, automation, and software to drive success in AM.
The CUT AM 500 works seamlessly alongside other GF Machining Solutions and 3D Systems scalable, workflow-optimized solutions such as the DMP Factory 500, DMP Flex 350, and DMP Factory 350.
GF Machining Solutions, 560 Bond St., Lincolnshire, IL 60069, 847-913-5300, fax: 847-913-5340, www.gfms.com/us.
