Makino EDAC3 Precision Sinker EDM
Key Specifications
X/Y/Z Travel
Work Tank Dimensions
Max Workpiece Weight
Dielectric System
Surface Finish Ra
Control System
Overview
The Makino EDAC3 is Makino's precision-class sinker EDM, designed for applications where dimensional accuracy and surface finish requirements exceed the capabilities of standard production sinker EDM machines. The EDAC designation — Advanced Ceramic — reflects Makino's use of ceramic structural components in key locations throughout the machine to minimize thermal expansion and maximize positional stability. This approach directly addresses one of the fundamental challenges in high-precision sinker EDM: controlling the dimensional drift caused by heat generated during long burn cycles.
At its core, the EDAC3 uses Makino's high-precision version of the MGH generator with ultra-fine pulse control for extremely low energy discharges. Combined with the ceramic structural elements and a tightly regulated dielectric temperature system, the EDAC3 achieves cavity dimensional tolerances in the single-digit micron range and surface finishes approaching Ra 0.02 µm in dedicated mirror-finish conditions. This level of capability is required in precision stamping die production, watch component tooling, micro-mold manufacturing, and fine-pitch connector tooling.
The EDAC3's work envelope is smaller than the EDAF3, reflecting the machine's focus on precision work rather than maximum workpiece size. The machine table accepts workpieces up to 500 kg, appropriate for precision inserts, cores, and small mold blocks rather than large mold bases. The HYPER i control with EDAC-specific precision condition sets guides operators through programming high-accuracy, multi-stage burn sequences that transition automatically from rough erosion to ultra-fine mirror finishing.
The machine is compatible with Makino's high-precision electrode management system, enabling automated electrode changes during unmanned multi-stage finishing sequences. For shops building precision tooling cells, the EDAC3 pairs naturally with Makino's V33i and D200Z high-speed machining centers, forming a complete EDM + hard milling solution for the most demanding precision tooling work.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X/Y/Z Travel | 350 x 250 x 250 mm |
| Work Tank Dimensions | 500 x 350 mm |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 500 kg |
| Dielectric System | High-precision temperature-regulated dielectric, ±0.5°C stability |
| Surface Finish Ra | Ra 0.02 µm (mirror finish in optimized conditions) |
| Control System | Makino HYPER i with EDAC precision condition library |
| Generator Power | MGH high-precision generator, ultra-fine pulse control |
| Machine Weight | Approx. 4,500 kg |
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Specifications sourced from makino.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Ceramic structural components minimize thermal expansion for single-digit micron cavity dimensional accuracy
- Ra 0.02 µm mirror finish capability for the most demanding optical and precision tooling requirements
- Dielectric temperature stability to ±0.5°C directly supports dimensional repeatability on long burn cycles
- EDAC-specific precision condition library covers ultra-fine pulse sequences for mirror and sub-mirror finishes
- Compatible with Makino's high-precision electrode management for unattended multi-stage finishing
Limitations
- Smaller work envelope (350 x 250 mm travel) limits application to inserts and small mold components
- Highest cost sinker EDM in Makino's lineup — justified only by extreme precision requirements
- 500 kg workpiece limit restricts use to smaller precision components, not large mold bases
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Ceramic has significantly lower thermal expansion than cast iron or steel. By using ceramic in key structural elements — particularly the spindle head, column, and table mounting — Makino minimizes the dimensional drift caused by heat generated during burn cycles. This directly translates to cavity dimensional accuracy measured in single-digit microns even during long unattended programs.
02
The EDAF3 is Makino's high-performance production sinker EDM for precision mold work, capable of Ra 0.05 µm. The EDAC3 takes precision further with ceramic structural components, tighter dielectric temperature control (±0.5°C vs ±1°C), and finer pulse generator circuitry reaching Ra 0.02 µm. The EDAC3 is appropriate for applications where EDAF3 accuracy is insufficient — watch tooling, micro-connectors, and optical molds requiring the absolute finest finishes.
03
Achieving Ra 0.02 µm requires copper electrodes (not graphite) prepared to a high polish, combined with EDAC3's ultra-fine finishing condition sets using very low peak current and short pulse durations. The workpiece steel must be uniformly hardened and the dielectric bath clean. These conditions produce what the industry calls 'mirror-quality' EDM surfaces.
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