Automation of
Wire-cut EDM

High degree of freedom allows flexible operation

Articulated Robot

The articulated robot performs workpiece transport.
To prevent workpiece corrosion, which can be an issue mainly with water machining fluids, adequate drying and spraying of anti-corrosion oils, etc., is necessary. Features of system upgrades with articulated robots include a high degree of freedom in layout for each device, a drying station (air blow process), and the ability to automate access to the anti-corrosion spraying device.

The tooling system for wire-cut EDM performs selection depending on the workpiece shape or utilization, enabling flexible setup work and continuity between models, to improve productivity in the machining process overall.

Workpiece replacement is performed automatically by robots.

For workpiece holding and mounting, utilizes workpiece pallets in response to respective shapes and weightings.

Measurement of shapes and air blow processing after machining can be automated.

Automated workpiece replacement
Large-capacity and space-saving

ERC80*

* ERC80 = EROWA Robot Compact 80

Compared with an articulated robot, many of the machines have a large loading capacity and can transport various types of workpieces even in a reduced space.

In wire discharge machining, when a large number of workpieces are being processed, continuous machining is possible by setting as large a number of workpieces as possible beforehand on the machining table. However, in this case the NC program that is created becomes complicated, and the workpiece setup also requires a long work time.

Automation of workpiece transport enables optimum workpiece space utilization, a drastic shortening of setup time on the machine, and improved machine operating rate.

• The system startup time is fast.
• Safety regulations the operator must observe are kept to a minimum.
• Using a measurement device (3D measurement device or presetter) and performing measurement off-line improves work efficiency.

• The IoT platform for machine tools which enables access from anywhere, using a smartphone, tablet, PC, or other device.
• Can perform batch monitoring of machine states and machining rates, collect information about consumable parts or various sensors, and perform checks in real time. Visualizes and analyzes information about machines involved in production, reducing downtime and improving productivity.
• NC screen can be checked from a remote location.
• NC programs can be reserved and executed.
• Service personnel of Sodick provide remote support for NC version upgrades and videophone and chat functions, etc.
• Can connect to machine tools compatible with MTConnect or OPC UA, and monitor operating states, etc.

S-Viewer

• Software that patrols each NC unit at fixed interval to collect data.
  It can perform integrated management of operating states in registered NC units and improve machine operating rates.

As it is a non-contact type that dispenses with the need for ball screws, degradation of mechanical precision traceable to wear on the ball screws and other effects does not occur throughout the machine life (10 years or more), maintaining the initial mechanical precision semi-permanently with no need for maintenance.

High reproducibility and long-term stability, two characteristics of linear motor drives, are the most important factors demanded of machine tools in automation of manufacturing.

Sodick’s wire-cut EDM is equipped with a linear motor drive on all four XYUV axes as standard.

Machine temperature changes are continually recorded for real-time diagnosis of effects on machining. In addition, changes in wire remaining amount and machining fluid resistivity are monitored to indicate the time for replacement of consumable parts.
Maintenance functions reduce defect rates and improve traceability.

Precision thermal displacement correction system based on sensing of temperatures in each machine part.
Eliminates the need for prior collection of data, enabling long-time operation regardless of the season or environment.