Machine Comparison
GF AgieCharmilles FORM S vs GF AgieCharmilles FORM X
GF Machining Solutions vs GF Machining Solutions · Sinker EDM
Summary
The GF AgieCharmilles FORM S and GF AgieCharmilles FORM X 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. On paper, the GF AgieCharmilles FORM S edges ahead with advantages in 9 of the compared specifications, though real-world performance depends heavily on your specific applications and workholding. 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 S | GF AgieCharmilles FORM X |
|---|---|---|
| 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) ▲ | 250 mm (9.8 in) |
| Table Size | 600 x 400 mm (23.6 x 15.7 in) ▲ | 500 x 350 mm (19.7 x 13.8 in) |
| Control | AC FORM HMI | AC FORM HMI |
| Max Workpiece Dimensions | 900 x 600 x 350 mm (35.4 x 23.6 x 13.8 in) ▲ | 800 x 500 x 265 mm (31.5 x 19.7 x 10.4 in) |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 800 kg (1,764 lb) ▲ | 400 kg (882 lb) |
| Max Electrode Weight | 100 kg (220 lb) ▲ | 50 kg (110 lb) |
| Dielectric Fluid Volume | 400 liters (106 gal) ▲ | 300 liters (79 gal) |
| Generator | IPG (120A peak) ▲ | ISPG (80A peak) |
| Best Surface Finish | Ra 0.08 um (3.2 uin) | Ra 0.10 um (4 uin) ▲ |
| Positioning Resolution | 50 nm | 50 nm |
| Rapid Traverse Xy | 5,000 mm/min (197 ipm) ▲ | 4,000 mm/min (157 ipm) |
| Rapid Traverse Z | 8,000 mm/min (315 ipm) ▲ | 6,000 mm/min (236 ipm) |
| Price Range | $140,000 - $200,000 | $75,000 - $110,000 ▲ |
Advantages
GF AgieCharmilles FORM S
- 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 400 kg (882 lb)
- Superior max electrode weight at 100 kg (220 lb) vs 50 kg (110 lb)
GF AgieCharmilles FORM X
- Superior best surface finish at Ra 0.10 um (4 uin) vs Ra 0.08 um (3.2 uin)
- More competitive pricing at $75,000 - $110,000 compared to $140,000 - $200,000
- Backed by GF Machining Solutions's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Small to mid-size mold shops that need a step up from the FORM E with better generator performance
Verdict
The GF AgieCharmilles FORM S holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the GF AgieCharmilles FORM S's strengths in areas like Z Travel and Table Size align with your work, it's the clear pick. The GF AgieCharmilles FORM X may still win on dealer proximity, existing tooling compatibility, or specific features that matter most to your applications. Request quotes from both dealers and, if possible, run your actual parts on each machine before deciding.