Precision micro machining capabilities

Manufacturers of fibre optics, electronic connectors, medical components, micro moulding and other high-accuracy machining applications require precision micro machining when working with wire diameters as fine as 0.00078-inches (0.02mm).

Makino announces the release of the UPN-01 ultra-precision horizontal wire EDM for micro-tolerance and fine surface finish applications. Designed with a unique horizontal wire feed system, this submicron level precision wire EDM provides reliable unattended operation even when working with wire diameters as fine as 0.00078-inches (0.02mm). Its oil dielectric configuration also makes it an ideal solution for high-accuracy machining of carbide and other hardened materials.

“The UPN-01 pursues the ultimate in precision micro machining, advancing closer to the world of 0.1 μm machining,” says Brian Pfluger, Makino’s EDM Product Manager. “It delivers fine surface quality and superb accuracy every time – achieving a best surface finish of 0.17 μm Rz and accuracies as fine as ±0.5 μm. This level of capability is ideal for manufacturers of fibre optics, electronic connectors, medical components, micro moulding and other high-accuracy machining applications.”

The UPN-01 machine travels for the X-, Y-, and Z-axes are 6.29-inches (160mm), 6.29-inches (160mm) and 1.96-inches (50mm) respectively, with additional U-and V-axis travels of ±0.27-inches (7mm). The UPN-01 will accommodate a maximum workpiece size of 5.90 by 5.90 by 1.57-inches (150 x 150 x 40 mm), with a maximum payload of 17.63 lbs (8kg), which includes the tool holder.

The machine is also configured with an ultra-precision rotary C-axis which is used for holding and indexing of the work piece, and provides rotational positioning accuracies of ±2 arc seconds. Due to the machine’s horizontal configuration, the convention work table configuration is replaced with a frame or clamp style tooling system, which can also be automatically exchanged using the optional 16 station Automatic Work Changer (AWC) system.

The UPN-01’s wire diameter range is 0.00078~0.00393-inches (0.02~0.1mm) with a minimum start hole diameter of 0.00118-inches (0.03mm). Reliable and consistent automatic wire threading is achieved by using an air injection and suction system. The maximum taper angle capability is ±6° with a 0.00393inch (0.1mm) wire diameter and 1.57-inch (40mm) plate thickness.

Precision micro machining platform

From machine construction to advanced control features, the UPN-01 is designed for reliable and repeatable high-accuracy machining of micro-tolerance features.

The UPN-01 features a thermal control system that maintains constant dielectric and casting temperatures. A tightly sealed and insulated machine cover system and high-performance air conditioner control the internal machine and work zone environment temperatures to within ±0.5°C. This isolates the effects of the ambient air fluctuations during operation, and ensures high-accuracy machining by maintaining a stable machine attitude even during long hours of operation.

The UPN-01 incorporates a revolutionary new motion control system that incorporates pneumatic static pressure guideways and linear motor technology. The pneumatic guideway system, which is similar to high-accuracy coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), minimises mechanical friction and ensures consistent high-precision movement for fine feeds, while eliminating the need for oil lubrication. Makino also engineered the UPN-01 with a unique linear motor system that furtAir Jordan IV 4 Shoes