Makino EDNC 15 – Sinker EDM
As the fourth machine in the EDNC-Series line-up, the EDNC15 is designed to accommodate large, heavy work-piece details. With its stationary worktable construction, the EDNC15 delivers outstanding accuracy. Greater thermal stability is achieved by integrating the dielectric reservoir into the base casting, which also reduces the machine footprint while providing support for parts weighing up to 22,000 lbs. (10,000kg). The machine offers an X/Y/Z stroke capability of 59.0” x 27.6” x 19.7” (1,000mm x 600mm x 500mm). It’s also available with a larger extended stroke and extended work-tank configuration, which provides X/Y/Z capacity of 66.9” x 45.3” x 31.5” (1,700mm x 1,150mm x 800mm) and increases the work tank size in the Y-axis direction by an additional 7.9” (200mm), handling part sizes up to 98.4” x 63.0” (mm x mm?). All configurations utilize a three-sided programmable rise-and-fall work tank that provides the operator with extremely easy access to the work zone.
The EDNC15 features Makino’s revolutionary Hyper-i control system, which represents a paradigm shift in user-friendliness and operational efficiency. The Hyper-i control empowers operators of all skill levels to achieve productive results with fast cycle times using the advanced SuperSpark™ IV and HyperCut technologies. The Hyper-i control features an inviting and intuitive interface with a graphical hi-definition 24” class touch screen and enables higher-level capabilities with the embedded on-machine support of the EDM assist digital manuals and practical E-Tech Doctor advanced help function.
The EDNC15 offers ATC (automatic tool changer) options to help achieve greater unattended machining time. The ATC system is located externally from the work tank so as not to impose stroke or processing limits. The optional HS-Rib high-speed Z-axis can reduce machining times by up to 60 percent on small details such as support ribs while maintaining precise depth control. The HS-Rib option includes a dedicated closed-loop chiller unit and a core-cooled ballscrew Z-axis structure and permits high-speed jump motions up to 20m/min with 31.5” (800mm) of travel to reach any work piece feature. The user-friendly features and advanced technologies found in the EDNC15 enable machining performance similar to smaller machines while providing the highest level of productivity.
• HyperCut: This special generator setting provides improvement to machining speeds without increasing electrode wear or required electrode reduction amount. HyperCut can be used on part details up to 30 amps, and improves machining speeds by up to 30 percent without affecting surface quality.
• SuperSpark™ IV: This family of technologies utilizes dynamic power supply adjustments and jump motion control during the machining process. It enhances automation and unattended operation capabilities by eliminating the need for external flush lines and increases the control’s ability to maintain higher cutting speeds regardless of the application or operator’s experience level. Reduction in rough machining cycle times can be achieved when using SuperSpark™ technology regardless of the shape, size or depth of cavity.
• ArcFree: This set of safety-focused settings virtually eliminates the possibility of the machine developing destructive DC arcs during the course of a burn. ArcFree technology, coupled with Makino’s extremely fast servo control response time, enables safe, unattended burning, even when the current applied to an electrode exceeds its maximum current density. While arc prevention has been a part of all modern sinker EDMs, ArcFree technology is the next advancement in intelligent adaptive controls for prevention of DC arcs.
• Flower pattern: Special conditions were developed to obtain a uniform Ra value surface finish with a large RSm value to improve the performance of mold release for plastic injection tools. The more open structure of the surface finish improves plastic part mold release and tool life while reducing the interval for mold cleaning maintenance.
• HQSF™ (High-Quality Surface Finish): This optional configuration dramatically improves the produced surface finish of tool steels using copper or graphite electrodes. The technology was specifically designed to eliminate post-machine polishing and produce superior metallurgical results that extend tool life. Makino’s HQSF process uses a special µSC powder additive that is mixed in the dielectric oil that enhances the stability and even disbursement of the machining spark energy. HQSF can also provide cycle time reductions when not machining to ultra-fine surface finishes.
• EDcam™ software: Makino has developed an off-line programming system for Ram EDM that makes use of the electrode and work piece CAD model information. The system eliminates the requirement of having to create paper process sheets for manual data entry of the programs on the machine control, which invite critical human errors. By intelligently utilizing available electronic data, the EDcam software brings the Ram EDM process into the 21st century and provides a means of program simulation and verification without the need for time-consuming, on-machine, dry-run operations.
• Remote machine monitoring: As part of efficient unattended machine operation, operators and supervisors alike may wish to monitor the machining progress while away from the machine. Makino offers two software options that provide a means of process updates. The EDM mail option enables the machine to generate e-mail text-based messages on any alarm/stop status or by timed intervals. The EDM viewer option provides direct viewing of the machine control interface on a remote PC.
