CHMER ED120QA
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Accuracy
Repeatability
work tank dimensions
Overview
The CHMER ED120QA is a large-format CNC sinker EDM from CHMER, Taiwan's leading EDM manufacturer and one of the world's major producers of sinker and wire EDM equipment. With 1,200 x 800 x 600 mm of X/Y/Z travel and a work tank accommodating workpieces up to 8,000 kg, the ED120QA is built for the largest sinker EDM applications: full-size automotive stamping dies, heavy die casting molds, and oversized aerospace tooling fixtures that simply will not fit on mid-size machines.
CHMER's Smart EDM Generator powers the ED120QA. The generator uses adaptive digital control to continuously optimize discharge parameters based on real-time gap monitoring, adjusting pulse width, frequency, and current to maintain productive and stable EDM conditions across the full range of the machine's working envelope. Maximum roughing rates on graphite reach 900 mm3/min, placing the ED120QA among the most productive large sinker EDMs in the market. The generator scales from aggressive roughing to VDI 4 (Ra 0.2 um) finishes without changing the physical setup — electrode, workpiece, and dielectric all remain constant while the generator's parameters adjust.
The ED120QA's machine structure uses heavy ribbed cast iron construction with wide box guideways that are precision-scraped and hardened. At 8,000 kg workpiece capacity, the machine's table and base structure must handle enormous static and dynamic loads during electrode approach and orbital motion. CHMER's guideways are matched to Turcite-B bearing surfaces on the axis carriages, providing smooth, low-friction motion with excellent wear resistance over long service life. The dielectric system includes a large-volume tank, high-flow pumps, and multi-stage paper filtration suited to the debris loads generated by high-current large-area EDM.
The ED120QA runs CHMER's proprietary CNC control with a touchscreen operator interface, integrated EDM parameter library, and support for 4-axis simultaneous orbiting. Remote monitoring and diagnostics are available through CHMER's network connectivity option. A rotating C-axis spindle option supports helical and complex orbit strategies. For shops evaluating large sinker EDM options, the ED120QA represents a compelling value — delivering Japanese-comparable travel and workpiece capacity at Taiwanese pricing that often represents 30-40% savings versus equivalent European or Japanese machines.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Work Tank Dimensions | 1,700 x 1,200 x 750 mm (66.9 x 47.2 x 29.5 in) |
| X-Axis Travel | 1,200 mm (47.2 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 800 mm (31.5 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 8,000 kg (17,637 lb) |
| Dielectric System | Large-volume petroleum-based system with multi-stage paper filtration |
| Surface Finish | VDI 4 (Ra 0.2 um) achievable |
| Control System | CHMER proprietary touchscreen CNC |
| Generator Power | CHMER Smart EDM Generator, up to 120 A peak current |
| Machine Weight | 15,000 kg (33,069 lb) |
| Positioning Accuracy | 3 um |
| Repeatability | 2 um |
| Metal Removal Rate | 900 mm3/min (graphite roughing) |
| Electrode Weight Max | 500 kg (1,102 lb) |
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 1,200 x 800 mm travel and 8,000 kg workpiece capacity handle the largest automotive and aerospace tooling that mid-size sinker EDMs cannot accommodate
- 900 mm3/min graphite roughing rate is among the highest available in a production sinker EDM at this price point
- Taiwanese manufacturing pricing delivers 30-40% cost savings versus Japanese and European machines with comparable specifications
- Heavy cast iron structure with wide scraped guideways provides long-term rigidity and accuracy under heavy workpiece loads
- 500 kg electrode capacity supports the large roughing electrodes required for high-current, large-area EDM on automotive dies
- Smart EDM Generator automatically adapts discharge parameters to maintain stability during difficult large-area or deep-cavity EDM
Limitations
- CHMER's North American and European service networks are considerably thinner than Makino, Sodick, or GF Machining Solutions — remote locations may experience extended wait times for technical support
- 15,000 kg machine weight requires reinforced concrete foundations and overhead crane access for installation — not a simple shop install
- Surface finish capability (VDI 4 vs VDI 2 on premium machines) is competitive but not at the mirror-quality level of Makino or GF generators
- CHMER CNC control has limited third-party training resources compared to more widely-installed EDM controls
- Brand recognition in premium North American mold shops lags Japanese and Swiss competitors, which can affect resale value
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New ED120QA machines are typically priced between $220,000 and $400,000 depending on generator configuration and options. Compared to Japanese or Swiss machines with similar travel, CHMER typically offers 30-40% lower pricing. Used ED120QA machines occasionally appear at $80,000-$150,000.
02
CHMER machines are well-regarded for build quality and generator performance relative to their price point. For the highest surface finish requirements (VDI 2 mirror quality) or maximum axis precision, Makino and Sodick hold an edge. For productive roughing and medium-finish work on large components, CHMER is fully competitive and significantly more affordable.
03
CHMER sells through regional machine tool distributors in North America rather than direct factory service. Service response times can vary significantly by location. Shops should confirm local distributor service capability before purchasing, and budget for extended service wait times compared to Makino or Sodick direct service.
04
Yes. Like all sinker EDMs, the ED120QA is material-hardness independent and can machine any electrically conductive material regardless of hardness. Carbide requires reversed polarity compared to steel, and the CHMER generator includes dedicated carbide EDM parameters.
05
At 15,000 kg machine weight plus workpiece loads up to 8,000 kg, the ED120QA requires a reinforced concrete foundation designed by a structural engineer. CHMER provides foundation drawings and specifications. Overhead crane access is required for installation.
Community Discussions
Troubleshooting and problem-solving — AGIE, CHMER & AMS Support - Practical Machinist
Options and configuration advice — chmer EDMwire cut - Practical Machinist
Pricing and buying discussion — CHMER Wire EDM's - Practical Machinist
Maintenance and service — CHMER service excellence to be lauded - Practical Machinist
Links to community discussions. Summaries are editorial — visit the original thread for full context.
