GF Machining Solutions AgieCharmilles FORM P 900

The AgieCharmilles FORM P 900 is the largest machine in GF Machining Solutions' FORM P die-sinking EDM series: 900 x 700 x 500 mm of travel, workpieces up to 1670 x 1120 x 560 mm and 3000 kg, and a 2500 l dielectric tank. It is the size for large mould inserts, die-casting dies and blocks too heavy or too tall for the smaller frames.

The working height is where it pulls away from the rest of the range. The bath level runs from 0 to 630 mm, so a 560 mm workpiece is fully covered, and the table-to-chuck distance spans 310 to 800 mm. On a deep cavity in a tall block, that 800 mm upper limit is shared between the part, the electrode holder and the electrode itself. Electrode weight is capped at 50 kg, the same figure the AgieCharmilles FORM P 600 carries, so the bigger frame buys workpiece capacity rather than heavier electrodes.

Against the AgieCharmilles FORM P 600 (600 x 400 x 450 mm, 1600 kg, 700 l, 4800 kg machine weight), this machine adds travel on all three axes, almost doubles the part weight and more than triples the tank. GF quotes its best surface finish as Ra 0.1 μm, where the AgieCharmilles FORM P 600 is listed at Ra 0.08 μm.

On a frame this size, long erosion jobs run unattended, which is where the series options matter. GF offers a rotary tool changer from 16 to 160 positions, built to handle large electrodes and available with a double gripper and automatic scanning, plus the Accura C-axis with up to 5,000 kg·cm² of inertia capacity, six extra programmable flushing outlets and up to two additional axes. iGap spark-gap control, iQ electrode-wear technology and the TECFORM parameter system are described for the series as a whole. The machine occupies 2970 x 3100 mm, stands 3320 mm high and weighs 7014 kg before the tank is filled.