Tooling Update

GF AgieCharmilles, Lincolnshire, IL, introduces the Laser 4000 5Ax, reportedly the largest laser-texturing machine on the market. The five-axis machine adds texture to oversized dies and molds as large as 3 by 4 m, and as heavy as 18 tons. The workpiece remains stationary while the machine’s axes move around it. The Laser 4000 5Ax manages 3D distortion of texture and masters texture direction related to part shape.

With its laser technology, GF AgieCharmilles provides a process that reportedly is faster, quieter and more repeatable than conventional manual and chemical etching processes. And while chemical etching produces only three to five layers, GF AgieCharmilles’ laser technology achieves 30 to 50 layers, allowing for greater creativity in part design across a variety of materials, including graphite, aluminum, copper, steel, carbide, brass and ceramics.