Machine Comparison
GF AgieCharmilles FORM E 350 vs GF AgieCharmilles FORM P
GF Machining Solutions vs GF Machining Solutions · Sinker EDM
Summary
The GF AgieCharmilles FORM E 350 and GF AgieCharmilles FORM P are both from GF Machining Solutions's sinker edm lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the GF Machining Solutions ecosystem. The GF AgieCharmilles FORM P shows specification advantages in 9 categories, though the GF AgieCharmilles FORM E 350 may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a sinker edm.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | GF AgieCharmilles FORM E 350 | GF AgieCharmilles FORM P |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 350 mm (13.8 in) | 350 mm (13.8 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 250 mm (9.8 in) | 250 mm (9.8 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 250 mm (9.8 in) | 350 mm (13.8 in) ▲ |
| Table Size | 500 x 350 mm (19.7 x 13.8 in) | 600 x 400 mm (23.6 x 15.7 in) ▲ |
| Control | AC FORM HMI | AC FORM HMI with process analytics |
| Max Workpiece Dimensions | 800 x 500 x 265 mm (31.5 x 19.7 x 10.4 in) | 900 x 600 x 350 mm (35.4 x 23.6 x 13.8 in) ▲ |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 200 kg (440 lb) | 800 kg (1,764 lb) ▲ |
| Max Electrode Weight | 50 kg (110 lb) | 100 kg (220 lb) ▲ |
| Dielectric Fluid Volume | 270 liters (71 gal) | 400 liters (106 gal) ▲ |
| Generator | ISPG (80A peak) | IPG Advanced (120A peak) ▲ |
| Best Surface Finish | Ra 0.1 um (4 uin) ▲ | Ra 0.05 um (2 uin) |
| Positioning Resolution | 50 nm | 50 nm |
| Rapid Traverse Xy | 4,000 mm/min (157 ipm) | 5,000 mm/min (197 ipm) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse Z | 6,000 mm/min (236 ipm) | 8,000 mm/min (315 ipm) ▲ |
| Price Range | $60,000 - $90,000 ▲ | $180,000 - $260,000 |
Advantages
GF AgieCharmilles FORM E 350
- Superior best surface finish at Ra 0.1 um (4 uin) vs Ra 0.05 um (2 uin)
- More competitive pricing at $60,000 - $90,000 compared to $180,000 - $260,000
- Backed by GF Machining Solutions's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Small to mid-size mold shops that need a compact, capable sinker EDM without the price tag of premium Swiss or Japanese machines
GF AgieCharmilles FORM P
- Greater z travel of 350 mm (13.8 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior table size at 600 x 400 mm (23.6 x 15.7 in) vs 500 x 350 mm (19.7 x 13.8 in)
- Superior max workpiece dimensions at 900 x 600 x 350 mm (35.4 x 23.6 x 13.8 in) vs 800 x 500 x 265 mm (31.5 x 19.7 x 10.4 in)
- Superior max workpiece weight at 800 kg (1,764 lb) vs 200 kg (440 lb)
- Superior max electrode weight at 100 kg (220 lb) vs 50 kg (110 lb)
Verdict
The GF AgieCharmilles FORM P edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in Z Travel and Table Size. However, the GF AgieCharmilles FORM E 350 remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.