Designed specifically for the high-precision production of ringed turbine-blade holders, the Excetek R2000 wire-cut CNC EDM machine is of key interest to aero-engine component manufacturers and the power-generating industry supply chain. All Excetek EDM machines are supplied and supported by the exclusive UK and Eire agent Warwick Machine Tools Ltd, Meer End (
www.warwickmachinetools.co.uk).
The R2000 ring machine can accommodate rings with an outside diameter between 600 and 2,200mm, a wall thickness up to 150mm and a weight up to 300kg. Submerged wire cutting is carried out in the 800-litre work tank, with axis travels of 200, 300 and 220mm in X, Y and Z respectively. The U- and V-axis travels are both 80mm for a maximum taper angle of ±20deg.
The machine also has twin support spars to securely hold the ring material, plus a specially developed wire-feed head designed to provide clear access to the inside diameter of the ring so that any blade location features or cooling feedways can be quickly and accurately machined.
Furthermore, the CNC system features a 15in LCD touch-screen for programming and has the ‘look and feel’ of the Windows environment (just one day of training is required for an operator to be competent in programming and running the machine). Programming can be done using standard ISO G code or Excetek’s Icon Assistant conversational software, which uses the control’s extensive database of cutting technologies.
Furthermore, Excetek’s software ensures that the motion control and spark generator work together for the optimum power ramping and compensation dwell on corners, avoiding wire twist and reducing corner ‘wash-out’. The machine also features an automatic wire feed and threading system, allowing round-the-clock operation. Moreover, submerged wire threading is possible.