Modern EDM manufacturing

The company has recently invested in a new AMStech AW series wire erosion machine from EDM Plus (UK), a move that has led to increased capacity and output of up to 25% for multi-cut work.

The machine means that the company can now undertake larger scale work that it was previously forced to decline and take advantage of the stable Auto Wire threading facility for unattended production during the day and night. Established over 50 years ago, Modlit has grown to become an important supplier of progression and conventional blanking press tools, complex mould tools and intricate tube bending parts and assemblies to its clients.

In order to remain competitive with a growing order book, Modlit was aware that if it did not keep abreast of the latest manufacturing technology, then it would be left behind, hence the investment in its in-house EDM department.

"We've had EDM wire cut capability since about 1997 and have constantly looked to upgrade and add to our existing Chmer EDM machines to take advantage of the technology advances, improve productivity and to remain competitive," explains managing director Derek Weatherhogg.

"For example, the latest AMStech AW5L machine gives us an increased cutting area on the machine. The front drop door is a nice space saving feature which was important for the allotted area in our EDM department. The linear drive system also means that the work we produce is far more accurate and along with the generator advances means we can produce much better finishes on the parts we wire cut. We can now also use a range of smaller diameter wires down to 0.1mm for intricate work on the press tools and mould tools we produce. We now don’t have to turn away work that wouldn't fit on our existing machines."

Progression and conventional blanking press tools, complex mould tools and intricate tube bending parts can now be produced more cost effectively thanks to the rapid auto wire threading facility on the latest AMStech AW5L wire cut machine.

Mr Weatherhogg continues: "Unattended operation of the machine on multi-aperture work has given us more production time per 24 hours on the machine and improved man hours during the working day as well.”

Having been highly satisfied with the performances of its existing Chmer machines and the back-up and support from EDM Plus, Modlit didn’t even consider going anywhere else for its new investment.

"Fortunately we are very busy and it is rare when the wire cut machines are not being used. The optional 20kg wire spool feed means that unattended operation of the machine gives more production time in other areas of the factory and of course we take full advantage of lights-out running to maximise our output,” Mr Weatherhogg says.

“We don’t have to do anything to the parts after wire cutting them, the accuracy and surface finish is first class and we now have confidence working to 5µm where necessary. Customer satisfaction and quality are the keys to our success, but we also have immense pride in what we produce and supply to our clients.”

AMStech’s linear motor drive technology provides zero backlash which improves positioning accuracy and the rapid servo response maximises cutting efficiency with vibration-free axis movement.

EDM PLUS www.edmplus.co.uk

MODLIT ENGINEERING http://modlit.co.uk