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 sinker EDMs with 350 x 250 mm of X/Y travel and the AC FORM HMI. The FORM E 350 is the compact entry machine; the FORM P is GF's precision model for mirror-finish mold work.
The FORM P leads on every capacity row: 350 mm (13.8 in) of Z against 250 mm (9.8 in), a 600 x 400 mm table against 500 x 350 mm, an 800 kg (1,764 lb) load against 200 kg (440 lb), 100 kg (220 lb) electrodes against 50 kg (110 lb), and 5,000 mm/min rapids against 4,000 mm/min. Its IPG Advanced generator reaches Ra 0.05 um (2 uin) against Ra 0.1 um (4 uin). The FORM E 350 weighs 1,730 kg (3,748 lb) against 5,000 kg (11,023 lb).
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) |
| Max Table / Workpiece Load | 200 kg (440 lb) | 800 kg (1,764 lb) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse | 4,000 mm/min (157 ipm) | 5,000 mm/min (197 ipm) ▲ |
| Max Electrode Weight | 50 kg (110 lb) | 100 kg (220 lb) ▲ |
| Best Surface Finish | Ra 0.1 um (4 uin) | Ra 0.05 um (2 uin) ▲ |
| Generator | ISPG (80A peak) | IPG Advanced (120A peak) |
| Control | AC FORM HMI | AC FORM HMI with process analytics |
| Machine Weight | 1,730 kg (3,748 lb) without dielectric | 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) without dielectric |
Advantages
GF AgieCharmilles FORM E 350
- Much lighter at 1,730 kg (3,748 lb) against 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) without dielectric
- Compact entry machine for standard cavities and die inserts on a 500 x 350 mm table
GF AgieCharmilles FORM P
- Best finish of Ra 0.05 um (2 uin) against Ra 0.1 um (4 uin)
- 800 kg (1,764 lb) workpiece load against 200 kg (440 lb)
- 350 mm (13.8 in) Z travel and 100 kg (220 lb) electrodes against 250 mm and 50 kg
- IPG Advanced generator at 120A peak against the ISPG at 80A
Verdict
Choose the GF AgieCharmilles FORM P for optical, lighting, medical and electronics molds where an Ra 0.05 um finish must come straight off the machine, and for heavier work up to 800 kg with 100 kg electrodes. Choose the GF AgieCharmilles FORM E 350 for standard mold cavities, stamping die inserts and general tool-and-die burning within 200 kg, or as a first sinker EDM in a shop with limited space.