ARTICLE

EDGE2, Makino’s new approach to automated, high precision EDMing, equipped with a 10-pallet magazine (PM10).

Makino’s EDGE2 features an innovative servo design that offers rapid traverse rates of 196 ipm (4,978 mm/min) — five times faster than typical CNC EDM machines. In addition, high-speed technology for deep rib machining, developed in conjunction with the new servo, allows the EDGE2 to achieve faster machining rates and superior finishes.

 

"One of the main ideas in the design of the new machine," says John Shanahan, Makino Die/Mold Product Specialist, "was to automate even one-off production, thus minimizing downtime caused by costly setups." This was realized through the PM10 pallet magazine, which makes possible the pre-setting and automatic loading and unloading of electrodes and workpieces.

The EDGE2 with PM10 offers numerous advantages to customers looking for automation, says Shanahan. The PM10 can change 10 in. (254 mm) square pallets with part loads weighing up to 88 lb. (40 kg). Depending upon the application, an operator can load an entire cycle of electrodes and workpieces on a single pallet.

"The benefits that can be achieved in productivity and machine utilization will be of special interest to anyone who values their time," says Shanahan. "Though pallet changing of EDM machines is only now becoming an issue here, it has become widely accepted in Europe and Asia for the ’production’ of plastic injection molds."

He says that the EDGE2 incorporates many of Makino’s standard features, such as a programmable "Drop Tank" with zero fill time, to further enhance automatic pallet changing. "And its 12 x 10 x 10" (305 x 254 x 254 mm) travels make the EDGE2 ideal for small molds, or for inserts for medium sized tools," Shanahan adds.

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