Wire EDM Machines – Overview

While there are many makes and models of wire EDM machines available today, the top three manufacturers are Elox, Japax, and Mitsubishi.

While each of these companies manufactures similar products, there will always be some variable characteristics, such as the user interface with the CNC controller, the number of wires, whether it is a 4- or 5-axis wire EDM machine, the type of current (AC vs. DC) and the wire gauges that can be used. Another big difference will be the size of the tank in which the manufacturing takes place.

Some examples of specifications for a model from each of these companies are:

Elox Fanuc Model M – (the Fanuc indicates the type of CNC controller that is an Elox Wire EDM component) has a 20 “X-axis path, a 14” Y-axis path, and a Z-axis path from 10 “

Japax Wire EDM Model LDM-S – has a 13.8 “Y-axis path and is capable of machining a workpiece measuring 15.7” x 19.7 “x 5.9” and a table that moves 7.9 “x 13.8”

Mitsubishi Wire EDM Model DWC 110 H-1 – has a 12 “X-axis, 18” Y-axis, and 10 “Z-axis

Each of these models only represents one of the many different models offered by their respective manufacturers. Variations from model to model will be observed with some differences including the distance each axle cable can travel, the size of the product that can be manufactured, and the CNC controller.

When selecting a wire EDM machine, consideration should be given to the product to be manufactured, the degrees of tolerance and allowable variations, the level of detail of the cut and, most importantly, the funds available for the purchase of wire EDM.

While Elox, Japax, and Mitsubishi are three major manufacturers of wire EDM machines, remember that there are other manufacturers of wire EDM machines as well.