GF Machining Solutions will highlight both additive and subtractive manufacturing technologies in booth 1420 at EASTEC in West Springfield, Massachusetts, May 14-16. Show attendees interested in additive technology can learn about the partnership between GF Machining Solutions and 3D Systems that resulted in the co-development of the DMP Factory 500 – a recently unveiled scalable manufacturing system that transforms metal manufacturing through simplified workflows to build higher quality seamless metal parts up to 500 mm x 500 mm x 500 mm with lower total cost of operation. On the subtractive manufacturing technology side, GF Machining Solutions will feature its Mikron MILL S 400 U high-speed milling machine, the AgieCharmilles CUT P 350 wire EDM and the AgieCharmilles FORM P 350 die sinking EDM.
With the 3D Systems partnership, GF Machining Solutions’ goal is to create a new generation of 3D printing solutions that will enable more seamless and efficient workflow solutions through integration of 3D printers, materials, software and electrical discharge machining (EDM) as well as milling and laser equipment. The partnership combines 3D Systems’ metals additive manufacturing expertise with GF Machining Solutions’ subtractive metal manufacturing expertise. The resulting systems will be able to produce complex metal parts within tight tolerances while maintaining operational cost effectiveness.
For those EASTEC show attendees seeking a compact high-speed, high-precision milling machine, the Mikron MILL S 400 U features a 42,000-rpm spindle and rapid traverse speeds of 61 m/min in X, Y and Z axes. With full 5-axis capability, the machine allows for tilting workpieces +/- 110 degrees and swiveling them 360 degrees to generate complex and concave part features with superior surface finishes. Integrated automation provides fast and easy loading/unloading of pallets without interrupting machining operations.
On the EDM side of its technology, GF Machining Solutions’ AgieCharmilles CUT P 350 wire EDM provides users extremely precise positioning and contouring capabilities for superb part quality and productivity. The machine features a highly efficient power generator, robust design and intuitive human-machine interface (HMI) as well as several automation options for lights-out operation.
The GF Machining Solutions AgieCharmilles FORM P 350 die sinking EDM is a compact C-axis designed machine with a fixed table and cast iron frame that offers high stability and force reduction to help maintain a precise spark gap between the part and the electrode. Regardless of part weight or dielectric volume, the FORM P 350 delivers consistent accuracy and superior surface finishes down to Ra 0.1 μm. Integrated glass scales preserve long-term, repeatability and eliminate the need for recalibration as well as any errors found in traditional ballscrew systems due to backlash and wear.
At the heart of the machine is GF Machining Solutions’ high-end, Intelligent Power Generator (IPG), one of the world’s most powerful generators for die-sinking EDMs. The machine also comes standard with a four-position linear tool changer for System 3R macro tooling. A Rotary Tool Changer (RTC) can be added to replace the four-position linear tool changer on the left side of the machine to increase the number of electrodes up 160 in a very small space. Additionally, the AgieCharmilles FORM P 350 can be paired with the System 3R WorkPartner 1+ robot for unattended night and weekend operations.
About GF Machining Solutions
GF Machining Solutions is the world’s leading provider of machines, diverse technical solutions and services not only to the tool and mold making industry but also to manufacturers of precision components. The portfolio ranges from electrical discharge machines, high-speed and high-performance milling machines—including clamping and palletization systems, 3D Laser surface texturing machines and spindles—to solutions for tooling and automation, services, spare parts, expendable parts, consumables and digitalization solutions. GF Machining Solutions is a globally acting Division of the Georg Fischer Group (Switzerland) and maintains a presence on 50 sites worldwide within its own organization. Its 3,394 employees generated sales of CHF 1,066 million in 2018.
