The EDNC157 Ram EDM combines rugged construction, simple programming and advanced design and performance to produce superior feature definition and surface finishes that significantly reduce polishing times.
It has a rapid traverse speed of 394 IPM, which is extremely fast for a machine of this size. At 1,574 IPM, it has the fastest EDM Ram jump speed in the world. The optional Integral Rib Head with C-axis allows for high-speed machining of ribs in large molds. The Rib Machining Unit retracts up into the Z-axis Ram when not in use, allowing for the mounting of large electrodes to the platen.
A "drop tank" design makes for easier, faster, more accurate setups as well as lower mechanical stress during orbiting. It permits superior dynamic control, burning precision and machine response, compared to machines that move the table for axis positioning. The drop tank design integrates the rear wall of the tank with the machine base for space and strength gains.
The design gives the EDNC157 a large tank size—2500 x 1400 x 800 mm. A U-shaped continuous structure provides the other three walls of the tank body. The structure retracts completely into the machine table.
The easy, automatic retractabililty provides open access to the table for safe, simple slide-on loading and setup. A maximum fluid height of 750 mm is standard. Adjustable tank depth permits optimal matching of dielectric fluid level to workpiece size—shallow for small jobs, high for large—for overall dielectric savings.
The EDNC157 is easy to operate. Master "model plan" menus allow simple selection and input of the machining conditions for the desired feature shape and surface finish. Graphic prompts let you create automated programs without NC programming. Macro-based software optimizes orbital motion for superb finish, sharp corners, precise detail and the creation of complex shapes with fewer electrodes.
Compact but versatile, the EDNC157 features an 2000 x 1000 mm fixed table that enhances machine rigidity. The head provides axis travel of 1500 x 700 x 500 mm. The machine bed is heavily ribbed, with anti-friction linear guides and bearings to complete the high-performance design, combining excellent rigidity with low-mass dynamics. The machine’s weight is nearly 54,000 pounds, which offers the added advantage of superior thermal stability. An optional linear motor drive unit for Rib Head w/C axis is also available.
Single Page and Model Plan Programming
Single Page Programming is fast and easy, allowing for automatic programming with a minimum amount of operator inputs. The single-screen menu displays easy-to-follow prompts and questions, and the system automatically chooses the correct power supply settings for the operator.
"Model Plan"—a process that has simplified programming for the die mold market for more than 15 years—matches flexibility of operation to the skill level of the operator. Model Plan Programming allows the experienced operator to have complete control over the EDM process. It is powerful enough to modify jumps, create a cleaning jump cycle, change orbiting speeds or control servo speeds.
It also lets the less experienced operator choose a variety of automatic routines for simple two or three-dimensional orbits, automatic positioning and measuring. Blueprint data input screens on the CRT easily allow all canned cycles to be adjusted for any situation.
Proprietary software capabilities and features help improve finishes and cycle times:
Flexipath permits orbiting in any path and angling of the electrode, similar to wire EDM, for efficient and economical machining of special shapes;
Varipath applies "intelligent" orbiting to produce sharp corners without flushing. It equalizes metal removal for precise detail and quality finishes (up to .2mm RM);
Bottom Stop Complex creates curved or prismatic bottom cavities by programmable orbiting of standard electrodes.
Automatic tool change and adaptive controls enable high levels of unattended machining. "A-Jump"—automatic jump machining control—sets jump conditions to the machining job, eliminating the need for operator intervention. This makes it possible to machine small, fine jobs and also deep ribs reliably and accurately without trial runs, regardless of operator skill. MaxAdapt II detects undesirable arc conditions and makes the needed corrections. This ensures optimum discharge and prevents surface quality deterioration due to arcing induced by chip buildup.