b'The tables have definitely turned with wire EDM.Wired for Success on a slug removal station. It thenEDMs can be equipped with an au-exchanges its grippers for a brasstomated slug management mecha-punch, knocks out the slugs andnism that uses a Venturi-style vac-brass hammer are enough to sep- places the part back into the ma- uum to basically suck slugs out of a arate a slug, whereupon the op- chine for a final skim pass. workpiece.erator can return the workpiece toAs the slug breaks free, its sup-the wire EDM for final machining ifSlugging It Out ported by the lower head while necessary. GF Machining Solutions LLC, Lin- the upper head lifts up and out A hammer helps achieve lights- colnshire, Illinois, takes a differentof the way, allowing the attached out machining because, for start- approach to wire EDM slug man- ASM mechanism to move into posi-ers, Core Stitch eliminates the needagement. EDM Product Managertion, he said. The ASM uses com-to stop a machine and apply elec- EricOstinisaidthecompanyspressed air to generate enough trically conductive glue or magnetsAgieCharmilles Cut P series wiresuction to lift and remove just over to hold slugs, automating what wasa -lb. slug, which is then depos-once a manual function. As Raucciabout the authorited into a basket at the side of the explained, the tapping function it- machine. The upper head then re-self also can be automated. Kip Hanson isturns to its previous position and We have an aerospace customera contributingeither finishes the cavity or moves thats using a FANUC robot as partwriter for CTE.on to the next one, all completely of a machining cell, he said. TheContact him atlights out.robot removes a jet engine com- 520-548-7328 orAn unattended machining strat-ponent from the EDM and sets [email protected]. egy, however, requires more than TestimonialAd_CTE.qxp_Mersen_TestimonialAd_MMT5_176/3/192:32 PMPage 1Its Time to Make the Switch to Top Performing DS4 Ultra-Fine EDM GraphiteOur detailed engraving of molds and stamping dies demands an EDM electrode that provides excellent durability and delivers sharp corners and fine quality. Weve used Mersens DS4 ultra-fine EDM graphite for several years and it really performs and saved us money.Bob Held Wisconsin Engraving Now, youve really got a choice in EDM graphite for your most challenging machining operations. Mersens DS4, featuring the DarkStar ultra-fine carbon particle, is a proven winner that delivers unmatched EDM performance. Its time to start saving money in EDMask your EDM distributor for DS4! Shaping the future of EDMedm.mersen.com Made in U.S.A.30JULY 2019EDM.indd 30 6/14/19 4:37 PM'