Sodick ALC-G iGE+

The ALC iGE+ range brings substantial improvements in cutting speed, geometric accuracy and surface finish, thanks to a new system called iGroove, based on the AXIAL ROTATION OF THE WIRE and patented by Sodick for this model. The main benefits of the function are the extreme accuracy of wall parallelism and perpendicularity, combined with remarkable surface uniformity, particularly at very low roughness values and, not least, a 30% saving in wire from the first trim cut onwards compared with a conventional machine. The generator contains numerous circuits that control the discharge gap optimally according to the application. Roughing is controlled with an optimised pulse so as to achieve higher accuracy in terms of surface quality and shape. The unit is built on an energy-saving design and works to minimise pointless energy losses.

Sodick linear motors, guaranteed for 10 years, deliver a high dynamic response and, thanks to a direct-drive mechanism, guarantee outstanding positioning accuracy and greater stability during machining. With no parts subject to wear and maintenance, excellent performance is assured over a long service life. The linear motor allows greater sensitivity in discharge control; a dedicated circuit adapts the technology to changes in thickness: the TC (Thinking Circuit) automatically detects the height of the workpiece and works out the optimum machining parameters. The Meehanite cast-iron structure and the ceramic used for some of the machine's key components deliver high insulation performance, wear resistance, reduced weight and extreme machining accuracy.

The TH COM function makes it possible to monitor and correct any thermal drift caused by variations in ambient temperature. The new tank houses four filters, while its structure is divided into three compartments so as to guarantee a constant supply of clean water during machining. The fluid tank is fitted with a newly designed energy-saving pump system. A circuit that monitors fluid flow to the heads during machining is also included as standard equipment; this intelligent monitoring system helps reduce the energy used by the flushing pump.

As a result, the ALC series achieves a considerable 20% reduction in energy consumption, standby included, compared with standard models. This advance in energy efficiency delivers cost savings and environmental benefits without compromising performance. The ALC series uses the new SPW CNC, equipped with a high-speed DUAL CORE processor and the new 19” LCD monitor with integrated touch panel, to further improve the usability of the control.

The Sodick ALC-G series in its iGE+ version brings together five premium linear-motor wire EDM machines: ALC400G, ALC600G, ALC600GH, ALC800G and ALC800GH. The maximum machinable workpiece weight grows progressively across the range, from the 500 kg of the entry-level ALC400G to the 1,000 kg of the ALC600G and ALC600GH, up to the 3,000 kg of the ALC800G and ALC800GH, making the series suitable both for smaller dies and for large-format components. The usable wire diameter is Ø 0.1–0.3 mm on four of the five models, while the ALC800GH uses wire from Ø 0.2 to 0.3 mm. Thanks to the linear motors and to iGE+ technology, the whole range guarantees high accuracy and repeatability, offering the customer the possibility of choosing the machine size best suited to the weight and dimensions of the workpiece, without giving up the performance typical of the premium class.