Smart EDM Technology

Technology-minded EDM manufacturer Sodick, Inc. (Schaumburg, IL) foregrounded their technology expertise at their recent annual Smart Technology event. Greeting guests with a cutaway of an operational linear motor, the event showcased live demonstrations of the latest in their technology lineup, including Wire EDM, Sinker EDM, High-Speed Mills, and Hole Drilling machines.

Smart Tech began with the unveiling of a new line of Wire EDM machines, the VL600Q, the latest addition to their range of cost-friendly Wire EDM machines. The VL600Q features a larger XY travel than other entry models at 23.62 in x 15.75 in (600 mm x 400 mm). It also utilizes the first SuperJet Automatic Wire Threader with an integrated “Pop-Up” search function. This upgraded AWT is not only ideal for unattended machining, but also improves the success of multi-hole threading and the threading of curved surfaces.

Sodick has integrated surface-finish circuitry from its top-tier SL series EDM, making the VL600Q a performance machine available at an economy price. It also features all-axis rigid linear motors, absolute glass scale feedback, ceramic components, as well as a specialized tank coating to improve performance. This machine utilizes a custom-made Motion Controller (designed in Silicon Valley) that enables it to make over 500 adjustments per second. This full range of features comes within a compact machine footprint, with a required installation space of only 130.71 in x 132.48 in (3,320 mm x 3,365 mm) – including control.

The VL600Q is fully manufactured in-house and comes with a 10-year positioning accuracy guarantee.

Sodick, Inc., Schaumburg, IL 60193, 847-310-9000, Fax: 847-310-9011, www.sodick.com.