Standard CNC EDM Machine Guide: CNC plus ZNC Series

Die sinking EDM is still the standard answer for the details a milling cutter cannot reach: sharp internal corners in a mould cavity, deep narrow ribs, textured surfaces and hardened steel details cut after heat treatment. The VITOP standard EDM series comes in three sizes, CNC-450/ZNC-450 through CNC-700/ZNC-700, covering the workpiece envelope most mould shops need day to day.

Three Sizes, One Design Logic

The smallest model works with a tank of 1100 x 710 x 450 mm, the middle step gives you 1300 x 720 x 475 mm, and the largest extends to 1650 x 1100 x 630 mm. Table sizes follow the same progression: 700 x 410, 800 x 400 and 1050 x 600 mm. Pick the size by your biggest regular cavity block plus the electrode and fixture on top, with room to spare for flushdie servicing.

ZNC or CNC?

The series is offered in both configurations. A ZNC machine moves the electrode under automatic control in Z while you position X and Y by hand. That is perfectly adequate for simple cavities, repair burns and one-detail jobs. The CNC version controls all three axes, so the machine can orbit, side-burn and step an electrode across a programmed path without the operator standing over it.

If your work is mostly single cavities and spot repairs, ZNC keeps the investment lean. If you burn complex shapes, multiple details per setup or want repeatable results across a batch of moulds, the CNC configuration pays for itself in unattended burning time.

What Fits on the Table

Worktable load capacity runs from 1200 kg on the small model to 2000 kg on the large one, so a cavity block with its clamp fixture sits comfortably in range. The head carries electrodes up to 120 to 200 kg depending on model, which covers graphite and copper electrodes of realistic size. The maximum distance from electrode head to worktable reaches 450 mm on the compact machine and up to 850 mm on the largest, leaving space for tall cores, deep cavities and holders without shimming the job up on blocks.

Machine weight ranges from about 1450 to 3200 kg. That is within the floor loading of most workshops, but check your slab condition, especially if the machine will stand next to presses or machining centres that vibrate.

Typical Applications

• Mould cavity and rib details in hardened steel
• Insert pockets and gate details cut after heat treatment
• Sharp internal corners and texturing a cutter cannot produce
• Repair burning of worn or damaged mould details

Choosing the Right Size

A practical rule: add the cavity block, electrode and fixture weights, then leave 20 to 30 percent margin on the table load. Do the same with the tank and travel dimensions for your largest expected workpiece. If you routinely exceed the 700 mm X travel of the biggest model, ask us about the high-efficiency EDM series, which extends the envelope considerably.

Talk to VITOP Machinery

Planning a machine purchase or need help matching a model to your parts? Send your drawings or questions to vitopmachinery@163.com, or message us directly on WhatsApp: +86 183 1908 0212. You can also browse all machines at www.vitopmachinery.com. We reply within one business day.