Electron beam system operating in an argon purged chamber produces mirror-smooth mould and die surfaces in a few minutes, with tolerances in the picametre range, says the manufacturer.
The performance spectrum of Sodick's pioneering PF-32A begins where even the most precise processing methods and machine designs meet the limitations of physics. The PF-32A makes it feasible to work on the scale of 'picameters'. This is made possible thanks to a tool that has as yet been unknown in the area of metal processing - the electron beam.

The quality of any surface is determined among other things by the processing method used to produce it - this is true of machining, for example, and also of EDM.

Up to now, the best surface quality has been achieved through difficult polishing processes.

Now Sodick presents the new PF-32A, a finishing machine that surpasses existing limitations and opens up a new era for surface processing.

The tool the PF-32A uses is an electron beam.

First the work-piece is positioned in the work area, which is then filled with argon gas before the electron beam with a working thickness of 60mm begins processing the work-piece.

Within a few minutes, mirror-smooth surfaces with tolerances in the picameter range can be produced.

The PF-32A opens up entirely new potential for shaping the surfaces of die-cast components produced using electron beam-finished tools.

Thanks to their 'closed' surface, the tools also enjoy excellent protection against corrosion.