Debuts and demonstrations

MACH 2016 will provide a UK debut for Sodick’s combined 3D printer/milling centre, plus demonstrations of Sodick’s wire and sink EDM machines.

Seen for the first time in the UK, the new Sodick OPM250E metal 3D printer with integral linear motor drive milling centre, will be demonstrated on the Sodi-Tech stand. This machine represents a one-step solution for the entire metal 3D printer process and is ideally suited for applications in sectors including aerospace, automotive, defence and pharmaceutical.

So, how does it work? In the simplest terms the process is as follows: first, a metal powder is uniformly coated and then melted and solidified by scanning with a laser beam (this process can be repeated up to ten times) after which the surface is subjected to high-speed milling with a rotary tool.

Then the metal powder is uniformly coated again and the process is repeated until the component geometry is complete. Using this combination of procedures, the OPM250E is able to achieve the high quality accuracy, precision and finish which are not possible by the use of a laser process alone.

The development of the innovative machine is the result of Sodick’s years of research and experience in machine tool manufacture, creating a range of critical component technologies that work together to produce manufacturing solutions.

Benefiting from the same pedigree, the bestselling Sodick AG60L die-sink machine, which will also be on the stand, features all of Sodick’s latest technological innovations, including linear motor drives to the X-, Y- and Z-axes and both an electrode wear reduction circuit and a fine finishing circuit to ensure optimum manufacturing efficiency. In addition, the energy saving capability of the machine can reduce average energy consumption (compared to conventional EDMs) by up to 60%, the manufacturer claims.

Sharing the limelight is the SLC600G wire EDM machine, which, in addition to linear motor drives to the X-, Y- and Z-axes, includes features such as a full security enclosure and Smart Pulse Wire control with the Smart Pulse Generator and a multitude of technologies to improve cutting speed and precision. In common with the AG60L, the SL600G also comes with a 10 year positioning accuracy guarantee, providing Sodick customers with peace of mind.

Sodi-Tech EDM www.sodi-techedm.co.uk
Hall 5, Stand 5470