AgieCharmilles, the EDM, milling and laser ablation machine tool specialist, has launched a range of ultra-quick FTC (Fast Tool Changers).

The FTC allows an EDM tool (electrode) change to be completed in 15 seconds (spark-to-spark), significantly reducing cycle times on high-precision, micro-feature parts. Prior to this, it is said the best spark-to-spark tool change times were 40-45 seconds for die-sink machines.

"A FTC really comes into its own when machining small, multi-cavity jobs and parts with a number of intricate features, and where erosion times are short," says Martin Spencer, managing director at AgieCharmilles.

"In these scenarios the FTC changes tools between sparks in less than 15 seconds, and that includes the time to move the correct tool into place, release it, and grasp the next tool."

The FTC provides manufacturers with a 20 position magazine and a maximum electrode weight of 7 kg per position.

Fast Tool Changers are available as optional fits on AgieCharmilles' FORM 200 and FORM 400 spark erosion machines.
 

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