Machine Comparison
Makino BX3 vs Sodick AG40L
Makino vs Sodick · Sinker EDM
Summary
The Makino BX3 and Sodick AG40L are both listed as sinker EDMs, but they do different jobs. The BX3 is an EDM drilling machine for cooling film holes in turbine blades and vanes. The AG40L is a die-sinking machine for core pins, cavity inserts and rib details in hardened tool steel and carbide.
The AG40L has slightly more X and Y travel, 400 mm (15.75 in) and 300 mm (11.81 in) against 370 mm (14.6 in) and 270 mm (10.6 in), and a far higher workpiece rating, 550 kg (1,213 lb) against 20 kg (44 lb). The BX3 has the longer Z stroke, 750 mm (29.5 in) against 270 mm (10.63 in).
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino BX3 | Sodick AG40L |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 370 mm (14.6 in) | 400 mm (15.75 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 270 mm (10.6 in) | 300 mm (11.81 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 750 mm (29.5 in) ▲ | 270 mm (10.63 in) |
| Max Table / Workpiece Load | 20 kg (44 lb) | 550 kg (1,213 lb) ▲ |
Advantages
Makino BX3
- 750 mm (29.5 in) Z travel against 270 mm (10.63 in)
- Built for EDM drilling of cooling film holes in turbine blades and vanes, including holes into hollow internal cavities
Sodick AG40L
- 550 kg (1,213 lb) workpiece load against 20 kg (44 lb)
- 400 mm (15.75 in) X and 300 mm (11.81 in) Y travel against 370 mm (14.6 in) and 270 mm (10.6 in)
- Suited to mold and die sinking in hardened tool steel and cemented carbide
Verdict
These machines serve different processes. Choose the Makino BX3 for high-volume drilling of cooling holes in turbine blades, vanes and small aero-engine parts, where its 750 mm (29.5 in) Z travel applies. Choose the Sodick AG40L for injection mold and die work, burning core pins and cavity inserts that fit its 400 mm (15.75 in) by 300 mm (11.81 in) travel and weigh up to 550 kg (1,213 lb).