VMC for electrode production

Methods Machine Tools Inc. has modified a Fanuc RoboDrill as a high-speed, vertical machining center (VMC) to cut graphite EDM electrodes. The company says the TrodeMaster has 3D contouring capabilities handled by a Fanuc 31i-A5 CNC and uses 30-taper tooling. The TrodeMaster also features full enclosures and a Torrit dust-collection system. The company says the machine accelerates to 1.5 G and provides feedrates to 2,125 ipm. www.methodsmachine.com