Sodick ALC800G

The ALC800G offers 800 x 600 mm X/Y travel versus 600 x 400 mm on the ALC600G, with double the workpiece capacity (2,000 kg vs 1,000 kg). Both use the same linear motor technology, SPG generator, and achieve the same +/-3 µm accuracy. The ALC800G costs roughly 25-35% more and has a larger footprint. Choose the ALC800G only if your workpieces regularly exceed the ALC600G's travel or weight limits — the ALC600G is the better value for parts that fit its envelope.

Used ALC800G machines from 2015-2020 typically trade between $100,000 and $180,000 depending on hours, condition, and generator vintage. The linear motor design means these machines hold accuracy exceptionally well even with significant accumulated hours, making used ALC800G units an excellent value proposition. Key items to inspect on used machines include work tank seal condition, automatic wire threader reliability, and dielectric system condition.

Cutting time depends on material thickness, material type, wire diameter, and the number of passes (skim cuts). A single roughing pass through 200mm-thick D2 tool steel at 800mm length might take 20-30 hours using 0.25mm brass wire. Adding 2-3 skim cuts for surface finish doubles or triples total time. Large progressive die plates can run 3-5 days for a complete multi-pass program. The SPG generator's 32% speed improvement over older technology significantly reduces these already-long cycle times.

The ALC800G supports wire diameters from 0.10 mm to 0.30 mm. Standard brass wire (0.25 mm) is the workhorse for most applications. Coated wires (zinc-coated, diffusion-annealed) improve speed and surface finish at higher cost. Molybdenum wire is used for specific high-temperature applications. For the large-format cuts typical on this machine, wire consumption is significant — budget for wire costs as a major consumable expense.

Given the machine weight and the 2,000 kg workpiece capacity, a reinforced concrete foundation with adequate load-bearing capacity is essential. The combined weight of machine plus maximum workpiece approaches 5,000 kg or more. Vibration isolation from surrounding equipment is recommended for optimal accuracy. Sodick provides foundation specifications during the pre-installation phase. Adequate crane access for loading 2-ton workpieces must also be planned.

Yes, the ALC800G supports full submerged cutting with its rise/fall work tank. The automatic fluid level control adjusts water height based on the workpiece. Submerged cutting is standard practice for most wire EDM work as it improves surface finish, reduces wire breakage, provides better flushing, and protects the workpiece from oxidation. The three-sided tank design also allows intermediate water levels for monitoring without fully draining.