FANUC RoboCut C600iB

$100,000 - $160,000 (used market) Updated 2026-03-16

Key Specifications

X Travel

600 mm (23.6 in)

Y Travel

400 mm (15.7 in)

Z Travel

310 mm (12.2 in)

travel u

±80 mm (±3.15 in)

travel v

±80 mm (±3.15 in)

max workpiece size

1,050 x 820 x 310 mm (41.3 x 32.3 x 12.2 in)

Overview

The FANUC RoboCut C600iB is the mid-range model in FANUC's previous-generation iB wire EDM lineup, bridging the gap between the compact C400iB and the large-format C800iB. With X/Y/Z travels of 600 x 400 x 310 mm, the C600iB handles mid-size progressive die sections, larger mold inserts, and aerospace components that exceed the C400's envelope without requiring the C800's floor space and price tag. While the iC generation has now been released, the C600iB remains widely available on the used market and continues in active production use at many shops worldwide.

The C600iB runs on FANUC's Series 31i-WB control with the original AI Pulse Control system for real-time adaptive discharge optimization. This first-generation AI Pulse technology — while superseded by AI Pulse Control II in the iC models — remains highly effective at preventing wire breaks and maintaining consistent cut quality during unattended operation. The AWF2 automatic wire feeding system provides reliable automatic wire threading through pre-drilled start holes, with broken-wire recovery capability that enables lights-out production with confidence.

Cutting performance delivers surface finishes as fine as Ra 0.15 micrometers with multi-pass skim cutting and accuracy of ±0.002 mm on standard applications. Wire diameter range of 0.10 to 0.30 mm covers the full range of typical wire EDM work. The U/V axes provide ±80 mm of independent wire guide travel for taper cutting applications. Maximum workpiece weight capacity is 1,000 kg, accommodating substantial die plates and mold components. The machine accepts submerged cutting for improved flushing on thick workpieces.

Used C600iB machines from 2015-2022 price between $100,000 and $160,000, representing strong value compared to new iC-generation machines at $180K+. New C600iB production has wound down as FANUC transitions to the iC generation, but remaining inventory may be available through FANUC distributors. The C600iB competes with the Sodick ALC600G, Mitsubishi MV1200S, Makino U6, and GF Machining Solutions CUT E 600. For shops seeking mid-range wire EDM capability at used-market pricing with full FANUC support, the C600iB is an excellent choice.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X-Axis Travel	600 mm (23.6 in)
Y-Axis Travel	400 mm (15.7 in)
Z-Axis Travel	310 mm (12.2 in)
Travel U	±80 mm (±3.15 in)
Travel V	±80 mm (±3.15 in)
Max Workpiece Size	1,050 x 820 x 310 mm (41.3 x 32.3 x 12.2 in)
Max Workpiece Weight	1,000 kg (2,205 lb)
Wire Diameter Range	0.10 - 0.30 mm
Surface Finish	Ra 0.15 µm (achievable with skim passes)
Cutting Accuracy	±0.002 mm (±0.00008 in)
Max Taper Angle	±30° at 80 mm height
Auto Wire Threading	AWF2 (2nd gen, broken-wire recovery)
CNC Control	FANUC Series 31i-WB
Ai Pulse	AI Pulse Control (1st gen real-time adaptive discharge)
Dielectric	Deionized water
Machine Weight	4,500 kg (9,921 lb)

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

600 x 400 mm X/Y travel handles mid-size die plates and mold components at a lower price point than the newer C600iC, especially on the used market
AI Pulse Control provides effective wire break prevention and adaptive gap control — proven technology with years of production track record
AWF2 automatic wire threading delivers reliable unattended operation with broken-wire recovery capability for lights-out production
FANUC's fully integrated architecture (CNC, servos, generator) ensures long-term parts availability and simplified troubleshooting
Strong used-market availability at $100K-$160K offers mid-range wire EDM capability at used-market pricing with full FANUC service support
±0.002 mm cutting accuracy and Ra 0.15 µm surface finish meet precision requirements for most tool and die, aerospace, and medical applications

Limitations

Previous-generation iB technology — the newer C600iC offers approximately 15% faster cutting and improved surface finish (Ra 0.10 µm vs Ra 0.15 µm)
AWF2 wire threading is less reliable in submerged conditions and with small start holes compared to the AWF3 system in the iC generation
Wire diameter range starts at 0.10 mm (vs 0.05 mm on iC models), limiting ultra-fine wire applications for micro-mold and medical work
No longer in active production — all purchases are used or remaining dealer inventory, requiring inspection of machine condition
4,500 kg machine weight and substantial footprint require adequate floor preparation and rigging capability for installation

Best For

Tool and die shops needing mid-range wire EDM capacity at used-market pricing while staying within the FANUC ecosystem for service commonality Mold manufacturers cutting medium-size injection mold inserts, cavity blocks, and core details that exceed C400 travel range Aerospace job shops wire-cutting structural fittings, turbine components, and landing gear parts from hardened steel and nickel alloys Shops upgrading from aging or smaller wire EDMs that need more X-travel without the $180K+ investment of a new iC-generation machine Contract EDM service providers adding a second or third wire EDM for overflow capacity and mid-size job handling

Frequently Asked Questions

01 Should I buy a used C600iB or a new C600iC?

A used C600iB at $100K-$160K saves $40K-$90K compared to a new C600iC at $180K-$250K. The iC generation is measurably better — faster cutting, finer finish, improved wire threading — but the iB is proven technology that continues to perform well in production. If budget is the primary constraint and you don't need Ra 0.10 µm finish or ultra-fine 0.05 mm wire capability, a well-maintained used C600iB delivers excellent value.

02 How reliable is the AWF2 wire threading system?

The AWF2 is FANUC's second-generation automatic wire threading system. It reliably threads through standard start holes (3 mm and larger) in dry conditions and recovers from wire breaks during cutting. It's less reliable than the AWF3 in submerged cutting conditions and with very small start holes (under 3 mm). For most standard wire EDM work, the AWF2 provides dependable unattended operation.

03 Is the 31i-WB control still supported?

Yes. FANUC supports the 31i-WB control with spare parts, service, and repair capabilities. Replacement CNC boards, servo amplifiers, and other components are available through FANUC's parts network. FANUC typically maintains parts support for 15-20+ years after a control generation ends production. Software updates are limited, but all essential functions remain fully supported.

04 What maintenance does the C600iB require?

Regular maintenance includes deionized water system upkeep (resin bed changes every 3-6 months, filter changes monthly), wire guide inspection and replacement (every 200-400 cutting hours), power feed contact maintenance, and standard mechanical lubrication. The dielectric water system is the most maintenance-intensive component — consistent water quality directly affects cutting performance and surface finish quality.