Makino recently introduced a new series of Ram EDM machines, the new EDAF Series, featuring a new mechanical design that it points out will increase rigidity and reduce thermal distortion. The EDAF-series is targeted to manufacturers facing uncontrolled thermal environments and long hours of unattended burning. The EDAF-series machines are equipped with an improved servo system, too, for rapid response to signals from the spark-gap monitoring circuits, so cycle time reductions of 10-20 percent are possible for burns common to today’s job shop applications.
The EDAF series features two models, the EDAF2 and EDAF3. The sizes of the EDAF2 and EDAF3 are 53.2X95.5X98.4 in. and 59.1X102.4X100.8 in., with X, Y, and Z axis travels of 13.8, 9.8, and 9.8 in., and 17.7, 13.8, 13.8 in., respectively. The EDAF2 provides worktable dimensions of 21.7X13.8 in. with a payload of 1102 lbs, while the EDAF3 offers table dimensions of 27.8X19.7 in. with a maximum payload of 1,764 lbs.
Unattended burning
The EDAF-series is equipped with the standard spark gap monitoring and arc prevention technology that Makino states is the most sophisticated available. Its new ArcFree Technology helps prevent destructive DC arcs that typically lead to time-consuming clean-up procedures or scrapped parts. ArcFree Technology lets manufacturers burn any application, fully unattended. “Even applications with unfavorable electrode/work piece geometry can easily be started with unusually high current density, and relied upon for flawless results,” according to Makino.
The EDAF series includes Makino’s new on-board programming system, Makino Program Generator (MPG), which is designed to make the Makino MGH control more user friendly, while generating more aggressive model plans to meet the demands of shortened lead times on today’s shop floor. By providing answers to simple prompts, and inputting basic data, even novice operators will be able to generate efficient and safe burn routines. This new program generator also allows for programming of multiple electrodes and multiple burn locations.
Makino’s High Quality Surface Finish (HQSF) technology improves the EDAF series’ with electrical conductivity for more consistent discharging and spark diffusion. HQSF technology eliminates secondary discharges that waste energy while permitting increased efficiency of the sparks for a superior finish without a loss in metal removal rates. HQSF also allows for achievable surface finish capabilities that are 50 percent better than that of conventional achievable surface finishes, Makino states, regardless of discharge surface area.
Additional features
Other enhancements to the EDAF series include several standard and/or optional features:
• A dielectric fluid cooling unit to maintain dielectric temperatures to a constant setting for stable burning conditions.
• A new automated Power Saving Mode that reduces the machine’s power consumption by 70 percent while idle.
• A rise and fall drop tank design for user-friendly part loading/unloading, faster, more accurate setups, and favorable automation capabilities.
• An optional fine-hole configuration for precision machining of details smaller than the eye can see.
• An optional thermal chamber for enhanced thermal control and performance accuracy.
• Makino’s optional Z-Axis Stabilizer technology for liquid cooling of the Z-axis ball screw and nut, allowing cavity floor surface blending to within one micron.
•Finally, left- or right-hand control mounting options are selectable on factory order machines, for integrating one or more machines into a robotically automated electrode or work-pallet handling cell.
