Machine Comparison
FANUC ROBOCUT C400iB vs GF AgieCharmilles CUT 1000
FANUC vs GF Machining Solutions · Wire EDM
Summary
The FANUC ROBOCUT C400iB from FANUC and GF AgieCharmilles CUT 1000 from GF Machining Solutions are direct competitors in the wire edm category. The GF AgieCharmilles CUT 1000 leads in x travel (1,000 mm (39.4 in) vs 400 mm (15.75 in)). The GF AgieCharmilles CUT 1000 shows specification advantages in 6 categories, though the FANUC ROBOCUT C400iB may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a wire edm.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | FANUC ROBOCUT C400iB | GF AgieCharmilles CUT 1000 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.75 in) | 1,000 mm (39.4 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 300 mm (11.81 in) | 550 mm (21.7 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 255 mm (10.04 in) | 400 mm (15.7 in) ▲ |
| Control | FANUC Series 31i-WB | UNIQUA HMI (touchscreen) |
| Max Workpiece Size | 730 x 550 x 255 mm (28.7 x 21.7 x 10 in) | 1,500 x 1,000 x 400 mm (59.1 x 39.4 x 15.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 500 kg (1,102 lb) | 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) ▲ |
| Wire Diameter Range | 0.1 - 0.3 mm | 0.10 - 0.33 mm (0.004 - 0.013 in) |
| Surface Finish | Ra 0.15 µm (achievable with skim passes) ▲ | Ra 0.10 um (4 uin Ra) achievable |
| Max Taper Angle | ±30° at 80 mm height | +/-30 deg at 100 mm height |
| Machine Weight | 3,200 kg (7,055 lb) | 8,500 kg (18,739 lb) without dielectric ▲ |
| Price Range | $120,000 - $180,000 ▲ | $250,000 - $350,000 |
Advantages
FANUC ROBOCUT C400iB
- Superior surface finish at Ra 0.15 µm (achievable with skim passes) vs Ra 0.10 um (4 uin Ra) achievable
- More competitive pricing at $120,000 - $180,000 compared to $250,000 - $350,000
- Backed by FANUC's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Tool and die shops cutting precision punches, die blocks, stripper plates, and insert cavities requiring tight tolerances and fine surface finishes
GF AgieCharmilles CUT 1000
- Greater x travel of 1,000 mm (39.4 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 550 mm (21.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 400 mm (15.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior max workpiece size at 1,500 x 1,000 x 400 mm (59.1 x 39.4 x 15.7 in) vs 730 x 550 x 255 mm (28.7 x 21.7 x 10 in)
- Superior max workpiece weight at 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) vs 500 kg (1,102 lb)
Verdict
The GF AgieCharmilles CUT 1000 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the FANUC ROBOCUT C400iB remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.