Automated Die and Mold Machining Cell with EROWA Robot
May 1, 2017
Here, the EROWA ERC is set up to shuttle both workpieces and electrodes between the EDNC6 sinker EDM and v33i 5-axis graphite VMC. This equipment is ideal for the low-volume, high-mix nature of die/mold applications, where automation helps shops achieve utilization rates approaching 85%.
"The benefits of automation are no longer limited to the production machining market," said a Makino spokesperson. "Automation of die and mold processes is expanding across North America, enabling manufacturers to improve quality, increase utilization and reduce labor."
Makino offers the machine technologies and engineering services necessary to implement various types of machine automation for die/mold applications, including hard milling, graphite milling, 5-axis machining and sinker and wire EDM. "Working closely with third-party suppliers, such as EROWA, Makino is able to create complex and sophisticated material handling cells to eliminate set-ups and prevent stack-up error, providing high levels of efficiency and precision," said the spokesperson.
In one example, the EROWA ERC is set up to shuttle both workpieces and electrodes between a EDNC6 sinker EDM and v33i 5-axis graphite vertical machining center (VMC). This equipment is designed for the low-volume, high-mix nature of die/mold applications, where automation helps shops achieve utilization rates approaching 85%.
Featured technologies
- V33i-5XB 5-axis VMC: For applications requiring long hours of continuous hard milling with reduced part set-ups, the V33i-5XB VMC is designed to provide extreme accuracy, especially in contoured shapes. The machine features a specially designed tilt-trunnion table delivering full 5-axis simultaneous milling for intricate 3-D shapes. "With high accuracies and repeatability and less lost motion and higher stiffness and rigidity than comparative 5-axis machines, the V33i-5XB has one-setup access to complex, multiple-sided parts, reducing handling and costs," said the spokesperson. The added 5-axis features offer increased accessibility to undercut areas, oddly positioned features and complex geometries, with shorter tool lengths and higher spindle speeds. This design is engineered to provide best tool life and surface finish characteristics.
- EDNC6 sinker EDM: The EDNC6 sinker EDM machine is designed to provide the speed and precision typically associated with smaller machine platforms, but in a larger stroke machine. The high-speed, core-cooled Z-axis and HyperCut technologies are built to provide fast cycle time with low electrode wear while achieving enhanced accuracy and surface quality. The machine's intuitive Hyper-i control technology offers graphical touchscreen operation that features advanced intelligent and intuitive functions to help boost productivity.
For more information contact:
Laura Buehner
Marketing Manager
Makino Inc.
7680 Innovation Way
Mason, OH 45040
800-552-3288
laura.buehner@makino.com
www.makino.com
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