Technical Description
The MAKINO U3i Wire EDM machine is a high-precision CNC wire electrical discharge machine designed for demanding applications requiring fine detail and consistent accuracy. It features X, Y, and Z axis travels of 14.6", 10.6", and 8.7" respectively, supporting workpieces up to approximately 30.3" x 23.2" x 8.7" and weights up to 1,323 lbs. Its robust construction emphasizes thermal stability to maintain precision and repeatability over extended machining cycles. The machine is equipped with Makino's HyperDrive Extreme wire path system, which optimizes wire tension for superior part straightness and intricate detail accuracy. Wire guides support a broad diameter range, from ultra-fine 0.002" (50 microns) up to 0.012", accommodating various materials such as steel, tungsten carbide, aluminum, copper, graphite, and titanium. The control system uses Makino's Hyper-i CNC interface on dual 24" HD touch screens, providing an intuitive, smart-device-like user experience with advanced functions like digital manuals, video tutorials, and real-time machine monitoring. Features include automatic wire threading with submerged threading capabilities, tool-less wire guide indexing, and comprehensive machining condition libraries for optimized speeds and minimal wire consumption. The machine supports tilting taper cuts of up to ±15° with automatic wire tensioning and delivers a high-quality surface finish combined with reliable, efficient high-speed cutting. Overall, the U3i balances precision, productivity, and ease of maintenance, making it ideal for tool rooms, mold making, and high-tolerance manufacturing environments.
