Sinker EDMs Enable Zero-Electrode Wear

Sodick’s AD series of sinker EDMs includes the AD35L and the AD55L high-performance models. The AD35L features X-, Y- and Z-axis travels measuring 13.78" × 9.84" × 10.63" (350 × 250 × 270 mm) and can accommodate workpieces  weighing as much as 1,212 lbs (550 kg). The AD55L offers X-, Y- and Z-axis travels measuring 23.62" × 15.75" × 15.75" (600 × 400 × 400 mm) and accommodates workpieces ranging to 2,204 lbs (1,000 kg).

Both machines feature no-flush EDM technology and zero electrode wear for increased machining speed, higher manufacturing efficiency, reduced cost and shortened delivery time, the company says. The technology enables EDM machining of steel materials with virtually zero electrode wear when using graphite or copper electrodes. Less wear also results in fewer electrodes, reducing production costs, the company says. Sodick’s control technology stabilizes the use of high discharge “on” times to reduce the amount of times the discharge is started and extinguished.

The machines’ rigid linear motor drives enable high-speed, high-precision EDM operations while also reducing maintenance and prolonging accuracy, the company says. With a full-frame, floor-standing bed design, the EDMs feature heavily ribbed, high-strength Meehanite castings for the bed, table and column construction, further promoting accuracy.