UNIQUE TECHNOLOGIES

Makino has developed a library of proprietary software programs designed to help improve the performance of our machining technology. From our pioneering Super Geometric Intelligence technology that showed the industry how to achieve high speeds with enhanced finishes, to our unique offline programming solution, EdCAM Professional, these exclusive Makino technologies can help improve the productivity of virtually any machining process.

H.E.A.T. (High Energy Applied Technology) is a new advancement from Makino in Wire EDM Technology that dramatically reduces cutting times while maintaining exceptional part straightness, and 1 or 2 pass cutting accuracy. Results are being achieved in real world applications, including poor flushing conditions, non-sealed nozzle applications, uneven surface thickness and through holes, as well as parts up to six inches tall!

An exclusive Makino technology, BellyWIZARD reduces part “belly” by as much as 40% more than competitive wire EDM technology. It improves machining throughput by reducing the number of trim passes necessary, compared to competitive wire EDM systems.

EdCAM Professional™ offline programming software assembles and relays critical data between CAD-CAM systems and the NC program for the controller running the sinker EDM machines. Bypassing the need for manual input, EdCAM reduces human error in burn programs, which in turn reduces scrapped mold components while increasing machine shop efficiency and dramatically reducing overall programming time by as much as 70 percent.

Makino's spindle core cooling and under race lubrication system is used to suppress spindle thermal distortion. This patented technology has a proven record of outstanding performance with Makino's high-speed spindles.

The spindle core cooling system circulates a large volume of temperature-controlled cooling oil through the center of the rotating spindle to cool it directly from the inside. With under race lubrication, the cooling oil circulated through the spindle flows through holes in the inner bearing races to lubricate the bearings as well.

Makino’s proven Flush Fine (FF) advanced milling process virtually eliminates the need for polishing. FF is a high-speed, high-definition and low-heat machining process pioneered by Makino. It combines high spindle speeds with precisely controlled, high pressure coolant or forced air to blast away chips and prevent heat buildup in the workpiece or the tool. This permits high-speed machining with greater thermal stability and chip control, resulting in a superior accuracy and finish, plus high metal removal rates and longer tool life.

Available exclusively on Makino’s S-Series of Ram EDMS, HQSF™ uses a powder additive mixed with the dielectric fluid to improve electrical conductivity for more consistent discharging and spark diffusion.

HQSF eliminates secondary discharges that waste energy while permitting increased efficiency of the sparks for a superior finish without a loss in metal removal rates. In addition, the HQSF technology allows for achievable surface finish capabilities that are 50 percent better than that of conventional achievable surface finishes, regardless of discharge surface area.

When finish requirements are less than 8mm Rmax, machining speed is markedly faster with HQSF than with conventional methods. The stability of the machining process reduces machining time variation, making it easier to set machining conditions.

HQSF uses a special additive called µSc that is non-toxic and costs 90% less than oil-based or metallic additives. Lasting ten times longer than previous additives, it can be used for both roughing and finish machining, thereby eliminating the need for a second dielectric system. Thus, HQSF makes unattended operation possible, greatly improving throughput while reducing costs and machining time.

With an integrated control system and access to editing program lists and monitoring functions, the Professional 5 control provides the user with more control and customization. It also offers friendly operation with a touch sensitive 12" LCD screen and a graphical user interface. To monitor your operations and store data, we provide Makino proprietary "DataCenter" software that allows you to store data locally and provide you full ethernet capability to transfer and edit data. Expandable with a compact flash card and PCIMCIA card slot.

The newest version of Makino’s patented super geometric intelligence technology, SGI.4 provides higher processing capability with higher machine acceleration/deceleration rates, finer resolution feedback and machine construction characteristics to deliver high-performance machining. SGI.4 consistently maintains higher feedrates and accuracy.

SGI.4 anticipates what the servo lag or following error will be for upcoming toolpath changes. It then moves the machine tool to that point ahead of the actual feedback from the servo drive, compensating for servo error to achieve a more accurate toolpath.

SGI.4 provides coordinated compensation in all three axes simultaneously. This on-the-fly, three-dimensional compensation lets Makino machining centers track precisely to programmed toolpath on mold contours and complex geometries, even at five times or more the feed rates for conventional machines. Simultaneous coordination and correction of axis motions enables the machining centers to create smooth, curving 3-D cuts for superb finishing accuracy and surface quality.

SmartTools are unique, patented and highly flexible tools that reduce cycle times, setups and costs, while enhancing quality and operational throughput and production. Utilized by Makino’s technologically advanced machining centers, SmartTools eliminate manufacturing steps and multiple setups. They can also eliminate the need for special purpose machinery, reducing equipment cost and simplifying manufacturing processes.

Our SuperSpark™ and SuperSpark II™ software can cut roughing and finishing time by a combined 60 percent.

Wire Wizard™ software is an easy-to-use control system for Makino wire EDMs designed for total part processing. The software has three main components — Programming, Set-Up and Operation — which provide the basic needs for any application. WireWizard prompts the operator through the process. WireWizard’s simple, interactive operation makes the learning curve negligible, providing an easy transition for any operator. Makino’s Wire Wizard™ also offers an estimating feature that will actually calculate part-manufacturing cost. With minimal input from the operator, the control software will output total machining time, consumable costs and can even output total part cost if an hourly shop rate is applied. This allows customers to monitor, control and drive out operational costs.

WireWIZARD combines the ease and convenience of a large 15” touch screen control with the reliability and performance of a Windows CE® operating system.