Mitsubishi EA12V
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
work table size
work tank dimensions
max workpiece weight
Overview
The Mitsubishi EA12V is a mid-range sinker EDM designed for mold shops, die makers, and precision component manufacturers who need solid performance across a wide range of burning applications without paying for features they don't use. With 400 x 300 x 300 mm (15.7 x 11.8 x 11.8 inch) X/Y/Z travel, a 700 x 600 mm (27.6 x 23.6 inch) work table, and 700 kg (1,540 lb) workpiece capacity, the EA12V is sized for the core of most sinker EDM work — mold cavities, core pins, die inserts, and complex 3D contours in hardened tool steel and carbide.
The FP80V power supply is the heart of the EA12V's performance. Combined with the Fine Pulse 2 (FP2) function, it delivers precise energy control that enables fine surface finishes while the pumping action of the FP2 mode keeps the spark gap clean without aggressive external flushing. The digital AC Smart Servo System provides 0.05 um (2 millionths of an inch) resolution, which translates to excellent positioning repeatability and consistent burn quality across the entire work envelope.
Mitsubishi's saddle-less column design is a notable engineering choice. Instead of conventional saddle ways, the EA12V uses a combined linear motion way system that reduces the number of moving components and mechanical joints. The result is a more rigid structure with better thermal stability, and the space-saving design reduces the machine's footprint by nearly 20% compared to conventional sinker EDMs with similar travel — a real advantage in shops where floor space is premium.
The M700 CNC control is a PC-based platform with touchscreen operation, 10 MB program storage, and Ethernet/DNC/FTP connectivity. The C-axis (electrode rotation) is available with 3R Macro compatibility as standard, which streamlines electrode management for shops using standardized tooling systems. The chuck-to-table clearance adjusts from 200 to 500 mm (7.9 to 19.67 inches), accommodating a wide range of electrode and workpiece heights.
The work tank inner dimensions of 850 x 600 x 350 mm (33.5 x 23.6 x 13.8 inches) provide ample room for fixturing, and the electric chiller maintains dielectric temperature stability during extended burns. An optional automatic tool changer enables unattended multi-electrode burning for complex mold cavities.
Pricing for a new Mitsubishi EA12V typically falls in the $100,000-$160,000 range depending on configuration and ATC option. Used machines from 2012-2018 trade between $35,000 and $80,000. The EA12V competes with the Sodick AG40L, Makino EDAF3, and GF AgieCharmilles FORM E 350 in the mid-range sinker EDM segment.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.7 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 300 mm (11.8 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 300 mm (11.8 in) |
| Work Table Size | 700 x 600 mm (27.6 x 23.6 in) |
| Work Tank Dimensions | 850 x 600 x 350 mm (33.5 x 23.6 x 13.8 in) |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 700kg |
| Chuck To Table Clearance | 200 - 500 mm (7.9 - 19.67 in) |
| Servo Resolution | 0.05 um (0.000002 in) |
| C Axis | Standard (3R Macro compatible) |
| Generator | FP80V with Fine Pulse 2 (FP2) |
| CNC Control | M700 CNC (PC-based, touchscreen) |
| Program Storage | 10 MB on hard drive |
| Connectivity | Ethernet / DNC / FTP |
| Chiller | Electric chiller (standard) |
| Machine Weight | 3,856 kg (8,500 lb) |
| Column Design | Saddle-less combined linear motion way system |
| Machine Travels X X Y X Z | 400 x 300 x 300mm |
| Maximum Workpiece Size W X D X H | 800 x 550 x 250mm |
| Max Dielectric Fluid Level | 300mm |
| Power Supply Peak Current | FP80V (80 Peak) FP120V (120Peak) |
| Internal Worktank Dimensions W X D X H | 850 x 600 x 350mm |
| Worktank Door Type | 3-Sided Drop Ttank |
| Table Dimensions W X D | 600 x 450mm |
| Max Electrode Weight | 50kg |
| Table To C Axis Chuck Distance Min Max | 135 ~ 435mm 3R-MACRO Chuck |
| Minimum Command Unit Resolution | 0.0001 / 0.00005mm |
| Rapid Travel Speed | 2000mm/min |
| High Speed Jump Maximum | 10m/min |
| Machine System Dimensions W X D | 1750 x 2050mm |
| Machine System Weight | 3725kg |
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi |
| Model | EA12 |
| Power Requirement | 20,022,000 kW |
Specifications sourced from machinio.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- MC Machinery's North American service network is the strongest among sinker EDM brands — faster field service response and better applications support than most competitors
- FP80V power supply with Fine Pulse 2 technology delivers fine surface finishes with self-cleaning spark gap action, reducing flushing setup requirements
- Saddle-less column design saves nearly 20% floor space compared to conventional sinker EDMs — a significant advantage in space-constrained shops
- 0.05 um servo resolution provides excellent positioning repeatability and consistent burn quality across the entire work envelope
- 700 kg workpiece capacity and 700 x 600 mm table handle medium to large mold inserts and die components without needing a larger-platform machine
- Standard C-axis with 3R Macro compatibility streamlines electrode management for shops using standardized tooling systems
Limitations
- M700 control is the previous generation — newer Mitsubishi sinker EDMs use the M800 with improved interface and connectivity features
- No linear motor drives — the conventional way system requires periodic maintenance and accuracy checks that linear motor machines avoid
- Standard configuration lacks automatic tool changer — the ATC option adds significant cost but is practically essential for unattended multi-electrode burning
- The EA12V has been succeeded by the SG12 and EA-S series in Mitsubishi's current lineup, which may affect long-term parts availability and technology updates
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The AG40L uses linear motor drives with 1.2G acceleration for no-flush EDM capability and comes with a 10-year accuracy guarantee. The EA12V counters with Mitsubishi's FP80V generator, Fine Pulse 2 technology, and MC Machinery's superior service network. The AG40L is the better choice for shops that value speed and long-term accuracy retention; the EA12V is stronger for shops that prioritize service availability and fine-finish capability with the FP2 system.
02
Not as standard — the ATC is an optional accessory. For mold work requiring multiple roughing, semi-finishing, and finishing electrodes per cavity, the ATC is practically essential for unattended operation. Budget for the ATC when quoting the machine if you plan to run lights-out or need multi-electrode burning capability.
03
Used EA12V machines from 2012-2018 typically trade between $35,000 and $80,000 depending on hours, condition, ATC option, and included tooling. Machines with the ATC and low hours command the higher end. The EA12V is well-represented on the used market, and MC Machinery continues to support these machines with parts and service. Verify the FP80V generator function and dielectric system condition when evaluating used units.
04
The EA12V works well with both graphite and copper electrodes. Graphite is the standard choice for most mold and die work — it's faster to machine, lighter, and the FP80V generator optimizes parameters for graphite automatically. Copper electrodes produce finer surface finishes and are preferred for applications requiring mirror-quality surfaces. The FP2 function helps maintain finish quality with both electrode materials by keeping the spark gap clean during burning.
05
The EA12V has been largely superseded by Mitsubishi's SG12 and newer EA-S Advance series in current production. However, the EA12V remains well-supported by MC Machinery for parts and service, and used machines are widely available. The newer SG12 offers updated control technology and improved generator performance, but the EA12V remains a capable machine for the price, especially on the used market.
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