Machine Comparison
GF AgieCharmilles FORM P vs GF AgieCharmilles FORM S
GF Machining Solutions vs GF Machining Solutions · Sinker EDM
Summary
The GF AgieCharmilles FORM P and GF AgieCharmilles FORM S share one sinker EDM frame: 350 x 250 x 350 mm of X/Y/Z travel, a 600 x 400 mm table, an 800 kg (1,764 lb) load, 100 kg (220 lb) electrodes and 5,000 mm/min (197 ipm) rapids. Both generators peak at 120A.
The FORM P is the precision version. It lists 1 um positioning accuracy against 2 um and a best finish of Ra 0.05 um (2 uin) against Ra 0.08 um (3.2 uin), using the IPG Advanced generator and an AC FORM HMI with process analytics. The FORM S runs the standard IPG generator and AC FORM HMI, and weighs 4,500 kg (9,921 lb) against 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) without dielectric.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | GF AgieCharmilles FORM P | GF AgieCharmilles FORM S |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 350 mm (13.8 in) | 350 mm (13.8 in) |
| Table Size | 600 x 400 mm (23.6 x 15.7 in) | 600 x 400 mm (23.6 x 15.7 in) |
| Max Table / Workpiece Load | 800 kg (1,764 lb) | 800 kg (1,764 lb) |
| Rapid Traverse | 5,000 mm/min (197 ipm) | 5,000 mm/min (197 ipm) |
| Positioning Accuracy | 1 um ▲ | 2 um |
| Max Electrode Weight | 100 kg (220 lb) | 100 kg (220 lb) |
| Best Surface Finish | Ra 0.05 um (2 uin) ▲ | Ra 0.08 um (3.2 uin) |
| Generator | IPG Advanced (120A peak) | IPG (120A peak) |
| Control | AC FORM HMI with process analytics | AC FORM HMI |
| Machine Weight | 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) without dielectric | 4,500 kg (9,921 lb) without dielectric |
Advantages
GF AgieCharmilles FORM P
- 1 um positioning accuracy against 2 um
- Best finish of Ra 0.05 um (2 uin) against Ra 0.08 um (3.2 uin)
- IPG Advanced generator and AC FORM HMI with process analytics
GF AgieCharmilles FORM S
- Lighter at 4,500 kg (9,921 lb) against 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) without dielectric
- Aimed at fast metal removal in deep-cavity mold work and long unattended electrode sequences
Verdict
The envelope is identical, so buy for the finish the drawings call for. The GF AgieCharmilles FORM P is the choice for optical, lighting reflector, medical and high-gloss consumer molds that need Ra 0.05 um and 1 um accuracy without hand polishing. The GF AgieCharmilles FORM S suits precision mold shops focused on metal removal in deep cavities and long unattended electrode sequences, where Ra 0.08 um and 2 um are enough.