Hypercut Wire EDM Technologies Increase Profitability

HyperCut technology reduces cost per part by producing 3µm Rz surface finishes, reducing cycle times by 20 percent and wire consumption by 14 percent.

Makino (Auburn Hills, MI) recently introduced its latest advancements in general-purpose Wire EDM technologies, the U3 and U6. Designed for improved speed, quality and flexibility, the machines are the true next-generation solution for improved profitability in Wire EDM processes.

“The U3 and U6 take wire EDM processes to the next level, by building on proven designs and feature sets to offer faster cutting times and a higher degree of accuracy and finish,” said Brian Pfluger, an EDM product line manager at Makino. “With the addition of our new HyperCut technology and Hyper-i control, operators can easily program and produce leading-edge part finishes in even the most complex feature geometries.”

Other features of the U3 and U6 include reduced wire-consumption rates, dual digitally-controlled flush pumps and a choice of two wire-guide configurations – conventional round or Split V guide system – to accommodate any application.

Live demonstrations of the U3 and U6 can be seen during Makino’s Advanced Manufacturing and High-Precision Technology Expo on September 11-12, 2013, at the company technology center.

The machines feature the company’s new HyperCut technology, a special three-pass process technology developed to produce surface finishes as fine as 3µm Rz in standard tool steels. This performance enhancement represents a 20 percent reduction in cycle time and 14 percent reduction in wire consumption, compared to previous technology. Together, manufacturers can expect significant saving in cost per part.

The machines feature an innovative design in which the entire bed casting is used as the dielectric reservoir. This design approach reduces floor-space requirements over previous models and eliminates the need for additional external fluid tanks.

By merging all machine components into a single base structure, the U3 and U6 provide improved mechanical rigidity and thermal stability, for sustainable long-term accuracy. Additionally, work-zone access has been simplified, for straightforward, ergonomic access and ease of maintenance.

Both the U3 and U6 are equipped with the next evolution of Makino’s advanced machine control, known as Hyper-i. This control system features a user-friendly interface similar to that found on tablets and Smartphones, making operation very intuitive.

A 24-in touch-screen display provides many intelligent functions, including onboard electronic manuals, instructional videos and a diagnosis tool. The Hyper-i control can also be customized to individual operators and/or for certain shifts, and an optional dual display screen can be configured for use with an onboard CAD/CAM system.

www.makino.com