Sodick AL100G
Key Specifications
X/Y Travel
Z Travel
Max Workpiece Dimensions
Max Workpiece Weight
Max Electrode Weight
Drive System
Overview
The Sodick AL100G is a large-format CNC sinker EDM machine in Sodick's AL-G series, built for manufacturers who routinely produce very large die cavities, heavy forging tools, large die casting dies, and oversized mold components that exceed the capacity of mid-size sinker EDM machines. With a 1000 x 600 mm X/Y work area and a maximum workpiece weight of 3,000 kg, the AL100G is among the largest sinker EDM machines Sodick produces with full linear motor drive technology on all axes.
The AL100G carries forward Sodick's SP generator with K-SMC adaptive discharge control, scaled for the demands of large-area electrode erosion. Burning large graphite electrodes across wide die cavities creates gap conditions that vary significantly across the electrode face — K-SMC compensates in real time, preventing the unstable arcing and electrode damage that can occur with fixed-parameter generators on large electrode footprints. The SP generator's fine digital pulse resolution enables the AL100G to finish large surfaces to Ra 0.1 µm in appropriate conditions.
The optional 16-position AEC (Automatic Electrode Changer) is particularly valuable on the AL100G, where large cavity production may involve six to ten electrodes of progressively refined geometry for a single cavity feature. The LN2W CNC's electrode management system tracks electrode wear, offset values, and sequence programming, coordinating multi-electrode automation across long unattended burns.
For automotive die casting die manufacturers, large-scale injection mold houses, and heavy equipment toolmakers, the AL100G provides the combination of large work envelope, linear motor accuracy, and adaptive generator technology that would otherwise require outsourcing large-format sinker EDM work to specialty shops. Its robust cast-iron machine structure and thermally compensated Z-axis contribute to dimensional stability across long production runs.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X/Y Travel | 1000 x 600 mm (39.4 x 23.6 in) |
| Z Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Max Workpiece Dimensions | 1600 x 1200 x 500 mm |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) |
| Max Electrode Weight | 150 kg |
| Drive System | All-axis linear motor (no ballscrews) |
| Generator | Sodick SP digital generator with K-SMC adaptive control |
| Surface Finish | Ra 0.1 µm (finishing conditions on steel) |
| Electrode Changer | 16-position AEC (optional) |
| Orbit Cycle | Yes — programmable orbit on LN2W CNC |
| Dielectric | Oil or water dielectric compatible |
| Control | Sodick LN2W CNC |
| Electrode Materials | Graphite, copper, copper-tungsten, silver-tungsten |
| Machine Weight | Approx. 22,000 kg |
| Power Supply | 200V, 3-phase, 50/60 Hz |
| Xyzmm | 1,200×650×500 |
| Mm | 2,100×1,250×650 |
| Kg | 100 |
Specifications sourced from sodick.co.jp — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 1000 x 600 mm work area handles the largest die casting dies and injection mold cavities
- 3,000 kg workpiece capacity eliminates the need to outsource very large sinker EDM work
- All-axis linear motor drive delivers consistent accuracy across the full large-format travel range
- K-SMC adaptive control manages variable gap conditions across large electrode footprints
- Optional 16-position AEC supports automated multi-electrode sequences on complex large cavities
Limitations
- Very high capital and operating cost appropriate only for high-volume large-format production
- Large footprint and 22,000 kg machine weight require purpose-designed foundation and crane access
- Linear motor service requires Sodick-certified technicians — no local servicing outside authorized network
- 150 kg electrode limit requires careful electrode fabrication planning for very large cavity areas
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The LN2W CNC includes a comprehensive electrode management system that stores registered offset values, wear compensation data, and sequence programming for each electrode in the 16-position AEC magazine. The system automatically calls electrodes in programmed sequence, applies stored offsets, monitors electrode wear, and proceeds through roughing, semi-finishing, and finishing stages without operator intervention during the programmed sequence.
02
The AL100G weighs approximately 22,000 kg and requires a reinforced concrete floor slab designed to Sodick's installation specifications. Anti-vibration mounting pads are standard. Overhead crane access rated for the machine weight is needed for installation and for loading large workpieces. Sodick's installation team provides a site preparation guide specifying floor loading, utility connections, and clearance requirements.
03
Yes, but achieving Ra 0.1 µm on large surfaces requires appropriate electrode quality, finishing orbit parameters, and generator settings. Large copper or copper-graphite composite electrodes on fine finishing conditions can achieve this on steel. Graphite on rough and semi-finish with a finishing copper electrode is a common sequence for high-quality mold cavities on the AL100G.
04
Yes. Sinker EDM is routinely used for titanium structural aerospace components. The AL100G's SP generator handles titanium's different electrical characteristics with appropriate condition settings. Oil dielectric is often preferred over water for titanium to avoid hydrogen embrittlement risk. Sodick's on-board condition database includes titanium parameters.
05
The AL100G provides 1000 x 600 mm X/Y travel versus the AL60G's 600 x 400 mm, and a 3,000 kg workpiece capacity versus 800 kg. For die cavities that fit within 500 x 350 mm, the AL60G is more economical. For large-format automotive die casting dies, bumper mold cavities, or heavy forging tools that exceed those dimensions, the AL100G is necessary. The core technology — linear motors, SP generator, K-SMC, LN2W — is shared between both machines.
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