The newly introduced UX3 and UX6 Wire EDM machines build on the success of the previous U3 and U6 models by Makino. While exhibiting the same external footprint and design, the UX series features several significant enhancements.
One of the new machines' key improvements is the HyperDrive Extreme Wire Guide System. The UX series shares this wire guide system with Makino's U3i, U6i, U32j, U53j and UP6HEAT high precision wire EDM machines. The HyperDrive Extreme wire guide system features an AC servo motor system that minimizes maintenance requirements and eliminates the need for calibrations. It also provides greater tension precision, has a wider range of tension settings and improved dynamic corner control technology, resulting in higher accuracy.
In addition to auto-wire-threading with a waterjet, the HyperDrive Extreme wire guide system offers jet-less threading technology. Jet-less threading helps improve auto-wire-threading capabilities for interrupted/hollow parts and those with exceedingly small start holes. Also, it allows for threading at the wire break point in certain applications.
The improved annealing process, which helps straighten the wire further, enhances the machine's auto-wire-threading capabilities.
The UX3 and UX6 machines also come standard with H.E.A.T. technology built in. In EDM, the most difficult cuts are when the water nozzles/flush cups are detached from the workpiece. Part of the H.E.A.T. technology package are large high-capacity dual flush pumps that help improve flushing in those difficult cutting situations. This minimizes the need for operator intervention while increasing cutting speeds and delivering accurate parts with enhanced surface finishes. This combination is unmatched in the EDM industry. To further extend routine service intervals, the UX series machines come with a four-filter filtration system.
Like other Makino wire EDM machines, the UX series is built from the ground up with minimal need for maintenance in mind. The dielectric filters are in a nonsubmerged cabinet, and with the integrated air-purge system, any remaining water dielectric can quickly and easily be drained. This makes any filter changes fast and mess-free.
The lower and upper energizer plates can be indexed without the need of any tools, simply via rotating by hand.
The wire guides can be changed or removed for cleaning without the need for a subsequent wire alignment procedure.
As a development over the past machine generation, the UX series offers standard wire capability from 0.003" to 0.012" (0.07 mm to 0.30 mm) diameter.
Both the UX3 and UX6 machines feature the Hyper-i control, which is universal to Makino's sinker and wire EDM machines. The Hyper-i control features touchscreen control on a large 24" high-definition monitor with an onboard training system and digital manuals. Keyboard and mouse come standard with the machine.
While the UX6 can accommodate heavy workpieces up to 1,500 kg/3,307 lbs., and the smaller UX3 offers up to 600 kg/1,323 lbs. maximum workpiece weight.
The UX3 machine is engineered to maximize productivity in a precision wire EDM machine while maintaining a very compact form. With its low floor space requirements, it is suited even for small and tight shop environments.
For more information contact:
Brian Coward, EDM Product Line Manager
Makino Inc.
7680 Innovation Way
Mason, OH 45040
513-573-7200
brian.coward@makino.com
www.makino.com