AP250L: Revolution of Wire-Cut EDM with Oil
2011-01-01
In 1981 Sodick released their first wire-cut machine with oil dielectric, the “Wire-cut EDM 330W”. Since then, Wire EDM with Oil dielectric has been recognized to be the best solution for high-accuracy and high quality surface finishes because of the smaller discharge spark, but the smaller gap has had disadvantages in cutting speed. However thanks to Sodick's know-how and experience over the decades developing this technology Sodick has now created a new generator “ECO Cut O” exclusively for AP250L, which overcomes this limitation of oil dielectric.
The
AP250L is the successor model of the AP200L, which is the world’s
best selling Wire EDM with oil dielectric. The new model features
“ECO Cut O” as standard which benefits
from the improvements in cutting speed and the number of cuts
required with oil dielectric. To accomplish the surface finish of
less than 0.15μmRa, for example, it requires a same cutting time as
water dielectric Wire EDM, thanks to ECO Cut O which achieves
unrivaled cutting speed in oil dielectric. The AP250L can realize
shorter operation times and consequently less wire consumption.
Furthermore, because of a smaller discharge spark in oil dielectric,
consumption of filters is less than water dielectric machines,
contributing to reduced running costs compared to conventional Wire
EDM.
The structure of AP250L is carefully designed to achieve the highest accuracy as possible. The machine has a symmetrical gantry design made from high quality Meehanite casting to create a highly rigid and thermally stable structure. The power supply has been separated from the work tank so that the heat generated does not adversely affect the machine's accuracy. Furthermore, the air and dielectric are circulated through machine body to control the thermal influences.
Linear motors are utilized on X, Y, U and V axes and cross roller guides have been preferred to complement the performance and capability. Linear motor is a direct, vibration free drive with unrivalled acceleration, positioning accuracy and no backlash which is an ideal device for high-precision applications. Its high dynamic responsiveness, stability for precision machining and performance do not diminish over time and remain maintenance free. Furthermore their accuracy is guaranteed for 10 years after the installation.
“LP2W” Controller features “Perfect Active Control,” the communication technology of 1Gbit/sec. The Controller in combination with Sodick’s SMC Motion Controller enables simultaneous control of high-speed electrical discharge and axes movements.
The AP250L has the axes strokes of 250 x 150 x 120mm (X x Y x Z) and it’s 3-sided frame work-table has capacity for work-pieces sizes up to 400 x 270 x 100mm. The 3-sided automatic tank door and ergonomically designed controller with 15” touch screen allows user-friendly operation.
For more technical details, please refer to the links below.