The new CUT X series, which includes the CUT X 350 (pictured) and the CUT X 500 machines, features new technologies that significantly increase precision, processing speeds and process reliability

The new AgieCharmilles CUT X wire EDM machine series, first launched at EMO 2021, is now available worldwide, providing customers with a fast, high-precision and user-friendly wire EDM solution. With the new high-end CUT X series, GF Machining Solutions has channelled over 100 years of ground-breaking wire EDM knowledge and experience into developing a new, next-generation high-end wire EDM series.

The new CUT X series, which includes the CUT X 350 and the CUT X 500 machines, features new technologies that significantly increase precision, processing speeds and process reliability.
The machines are capable of holding extreme positional accuracies and contouring capabilities for superb part quality, making them ideal for stamping, mould making and micro-machining applications in the electronic components (EC), medical and automotive sectors.

One of the main features and differentiators of the CUT X series includes the Uniqua human/machine interface (HMI), with optimal functionality and ergonomics in a 19in vertical touchscreen with a full keyboard and mouse.

For ease of use and compatibility, the Uniqua platform supports legacy file types from various EDM manufacturers. It also creates, imports, modifies and executes sequential (ISO-based) and object-oriented (dynamic) programs from previous versions of VISION and AC CUT, combining their usability and functionality.

With offline and ‘at-the-machine’ programming, ISO-based functionality and object-oriented programming, Uniqua provides a powerful graphic tool with integrated CAM. It also ensures compatibility with major CAD/CAM programs.

Besides the easy-to-use Uniqua interface, machines in the CUT X series are equipped with a new wire circuit. Thanks to a unique twin wire design and configuration, customers can optimise their EDM performance using the twin wire technology which enables: main cuts to be completed faster using larger diameter wires and smaller radii cuts using thinner wires; higher autonomy and improved machine utilisation via the incorporation of two identical wire spools; and reduced part contamination and improved flexibility by using two wires with identical diameters but different coatings.

GF Machining Solutions gives the operator the possibility to work with open or closed guides, thanks to a quick and simple system of interchangeable cartridges. This allows the operator to choose the right guides depending on the application. The distance from the guide to the workpiece has been reduced to guarantee the highest contour accuracy and a more stable process.

The new heads, produced with additive manufacturing (AM), optimise the flushing channels and reduce the distance between the guides and the parts — key to improving wire straightness and cleaning conditions during the cutting process.

The compact design of the lower head allows the machining of intricate parts. New X-Technologies in GF Machining Solutions’ database focus on high accuracy, high surface quality and higher speeds. Thermal compensation is a new standard feature with CUT X machines, ensuring ultra-high contour accuracy even during long machining runs and resultant changes in temperatures.

The Automatic Wire Threading (AWT) function makes it easy to integrate automation into the process, while the wire chopper helps reduce idle time. Thanks to annealing, job processing with correct and accurate re-threading is ensured, even under difficult conditions.

Other features available on the CUT X series include the incorporation of the proprietary Spark Protection System (ISPS). Based on the Spark Track technology, the ISPS prevents wire breakage by detecting variations in the workpiece profile.

The CUT X series is connected to OPC UA — for improved security and connectivity — while offering further options like automatic doors for faster processing, improved ergonomics and greater operator accessibility as well as retractable probing, 3-D setup for continuous production and Automatic Slug Management (ASM) for a fully automated and reliable process.