Fanuc Robocut Alpha-C400iB Wire EDM

$180,000 – $350,000 Updated 2026-03-17

Key Specifications

X/Y Travel

400x300 mm (16x12 in)

U/V Travel

±40 mm (±1.6 in)

Z Travel

260 mm (10.2 in)

Max Workpiece Weight

400 kg

Wire Diameter

0.1 – 0.3 mm brass

Minimum Kerf Width

0.12 mm (with 0.1 mm wire)

Overview

The Fanuc Robocut Alpha-C400iB is a CNC wire EDM machine from Fanuc Corporation, one of the world's largest CNC and robotics manufacturers. Fanuc entered the wire EDM market with the Robocut line to provide a wire EDM machine controlled by the same Fanuc CNC architecture used in their machining centers, enabling shops to manage wire EDM and machining center operations within the same control ecosystem. The Alpha-C400iB features a 400x300x260 mm X/Y/U/V workzone with a 5-axis simultaneous cutting capability for taper and complex profiles. The machine uses Fanuc's proprietary FS33iB controller with EDM-specific software, providing automatic wire threading, jump functions, and adaptive speed control. The Robocut uses a 0.1-0.3 mm brass wire with a 0.05 mm kerf width capability for precision die and punch tooling. Fanuc's global service network — the largest in the machine tool industry — makes the Robocut an attractive choice for shops prioritizing maintenance support. The Alpha-C400iB achieves surface finishes to Ra 0.1 micron with multiple trim cuts on steel.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X/Y Travel	400x300 mm (16x12 in)
U/V Travel	±40 mm (±1.6 in)
Z Travel	260 mm (10.2 in)
Max Workpiece Weight	400 kg
Wire Diameter	0.1 – 0.3 mm brass
Minimum Kerf Width	0.12 mm (with 0.1 mm wire)
Surface Finish	Ra 0.1 micron (with 4 trim cuts)
Taper Angle	Up to ±30° over 100 mm height
Auto Wire Threading	Yes (automatic at break points)
Control	Fanuc FS33iB with EDM software
Max Workpiece Weight	60 kg
Wire Diameter Min	0.05 mm
Wire Threading Time	10 seconds
Wire Tension Accuracy	+/- 15 g
Max Unmanned Machining Hours	140 hours
Standard Wire Capacity Hours	60 hours
Automatic Rethreading Max Thickness	150 mm
Cnc Control	FANUC CNC (up to 7 simultaneously controlled axes)

Specifications sourced from fanucamerica.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Fanuc FS33iB control familiar to shops already using Fanuc machining centers
Largest service network in the machine tool industry — parts and technicians globally
5-axis simultaneous (X/Y/U/V/Z) for complex taper and variable-profile cuts
Automatic wire threading at break points for unattended operation
Ra 0.1 micron surface finish for precision punch/die and mold insert work

Limitations

Robocut not as widely specified in dedicated wire EDM shops as Mitsubishi or Sodick
Fanuc's EDM generator technology less advanced than Mitsubishi's long wire EDM heritage
FS33iB has more general-purpose CNC features than wire-EDM-specific interfaces
Higher price tier than Asian wire EDM manufacturers of similar capacity

Best For

Shops running Fanuc machining centers seeking a wire EDM with matching control Toolrooms cutting progressive die tooling and punch sets in hardened steel Precision mold shops cutting deep-cavity wire EDM features in hardened H13 Job shops needing a versatile wire EDM with guaranteed global service support

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What makes the Fanuc Robocut different from other wire EDM machines?

The primary differentiator is the Fanuc FS33iB control, which provides a familiar programming environment for shops already using Fanuc machining centers. The machine also offers the best global service and parts availability of any wire EDM brand.

02 Can the Alpha-C400iB cut carbide?

Yes. Wire EDM cuts any conductive material regardless of hardness. Carbide requires deionized water dielectric and appropriate spark parameters. Cutting carbide typically produces slower material removal rates than steel.

03 What is the maximum taper angle?

The Alpha-C400iB achieves ±30 degrees taper over 100mm workpiece height. For larger taper angles or taller workpieces, the U/V axis travel may limit achievable taper in some configurations.