Sodick AGL Series Sinker EDM
Key Specifications
Table Size (X x Y)
Z Travel
Max Workpiece Weight
Drive System
Position Resolution
Power Supply
Overview
The Sodick AGL Series sinker EDM machines represent Sodick's flagship die-sinking platform, featuring their patented linear motor drive technology and SP3 power supply system. Unlike conventional sinker EDMs that use ball screw drives, Sodick's linear motors provide true frictionless motion with zero backlash and sub-micron position feedback, eliminating the stick-slip and drive compliance that limits precision in conventional machines. The AGL series covers table sizes from 600x400mm to 1,000x700mm (X/Y) with Z travel from 300mm to 500mm. The SP3 power supply achieves mirror finishes below 0.1 µm Ra on steel with nano-finishing capability. The machine features automatic 3D tool path generation and ARC (Adaptive Ram Control) for unattended sinker EDM production. AGL machines are widely used in precision mold tooling, aerospace turbine blades, and medical die manufacturing.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Table Size (X X Y) | 600 x 400 mm to 1,000 x 700 mm (model dependent) |
| Z Travel | 300 - 500 mm |
| Max Workpiece Weight | Up to 2,000 kg |
| Drive System | Linear motor (frictionless) |
| Position Resolution | 0.1 µm (0.0001 mm) |
| Power Supply | Sodick SP3 (nano-surface finish) |
| Min Surface Roughness | Ra 0.1 µm (mirror) |
| Max Electrode Rotation | 360 degrees (C-axis) |
| Electrode Material | Copper, graphite, copper-tungsten |
| Control | Sodick LN4 CNC |
Specifications sourced from sodick.co.jp — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Linear motors provide zero-backlash, frictionless drive for highest precision
- SP3 power supply enables Ra 0.1 µm mirror finish without polishing
- ARC adaptive control for unattended complex cavity sinker EDM
- Sub-micron position resolution for critical aerospace and medical tooling
- Strong US and global service network through Sodick Americas
Limitations
- Higher cost than ball-screw competitor sinker EDMs
- Linear motor maintenance different from conventional mechanics
- Large workpiece Z travel limited to 300-500mm depending on model
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Ball screw drives have backlash and comply under load, which limits precision and causes stick-slip at very slow servo speeds. Linear motors have zero backlash, near-zero compliance, and excellent low-speed velocity control. This allows Sodick AGL machines to maintain the precise gap control needed for consistent spark erosion and mirror-quality surface finishes.
02
The Sodick AGL SP3 power supply is optimized for copper, graphite, and copper-tungsten electrodes. Graphite is the most common for roughing due to fast erosion rates. Copper provides the best surface finish. Copper-tungsten is used for fine features and deep narrow slots where electrode wear must be minimized.
Community Discussions
Community discussion — Al80G Sodick
Pricing and buying discussion — Sodick programming features | Practical ...
Options and configuration advice — Sinker EDM in my Future - Practical Machinist
Comparison and buying advice — Makino vs Sodick sinker machines | Practical ...
Owner experience and review — Some more sinker edm action! : r/Machinists - Redditsinker EDM action : r/Machinists - RedditWire edm thoughts needed : r/Machinists - Redditsinker edm, trial by fire : r/Machinists - RedditWhere my EDM experts? : r/Machinists - RedditLearn me Sinker EDM : r/Machinists
Owner experience and review — sinker EDM action : r/Machinists - RedditWire edm thoughts needed : r/Machinists - Redditsinker edm, trial by fire : r/Machinists - RedditWhere my EDM experts? : r/Machinists - RedditLearn me Sinker EDM : r/Machinists - RedditIs there a way to run a wire EDM without it
Owner experience and review — Wire edm thoughts needed : r/Machinists - Reddit
Maintenance and service — sinker edm, trial by fire : r/Machinists - Reddit
Links to community discussions. Summaries are editorial — visit the original thread for full context.
