How Good Is NOVICK‘s Diesinker EDM Machine? Performance Analysis of the AF Series Precision EDM

In the Chinese die-sinker EDM field, Beijing NOVICK is a name that frequently appears. Many mold and precision part manufacturers include it on their shortlists when selecting equipment. So just how good is NOVICK‘s die-sinker EDM machine?

Can the AF Series meet the real-world demands of precision machining?

This article analyzes the AF Series‘ comprehensive performance across six dimensions: market positioning, measured accuracy, structural design, discharge control, machining efficiency, and automation capability.

1.Where Do Chinese Die-sinker EDM Machines Stand in the Market?

The current die-sinker EDM machine market can be broadly divided into two camps: international high-end brands and Chinese elite brands. Chinese-made equipment continues to achieve breakthroughs in core technologies such as CNC systems, pulse power supplies, and discharge control. The market share of Chinese high-end die-sinker EDM machines is expected to increase from approximately 30% in 2024 to around 50% by 2030.

For the practical needs of most enterprises – mold manufacturing, automotive parts, 3C electronics, medical devices, etc. – accuracy requirements typically range from ±0.005mm to ±0.01mm, and surface roughness of Ra ≤ 0.2μm meets the vast majority of scenarios. In this range, Chinese-made die-sinker EDM machines have become fully competitive.

Beijing NOVICK is a name frequently mentioned in this tier. The AF Series is positioned in the Chinese mid-to-high end market, offering both 50A and 100A current configurations to suit different requirements.

2.What Level of Accuracy Can Chinese Die-sinker EDM Machines Achieve? Is It Enough?

Accuracy is the most critical indicator of a die-sinker EDM machine. Many salespeople quote a single number: “Our positioning accuracy reaches XX microns.“ But in actual use, three accuracy metrics matter equally: positioning accuracy, repeat positioning accuracy, and surface roughness.

Taking the NOVICK AF Series as an example, the AF50 model achieves bidirectional positioning accuracy of 0.008mm on the X/Y axes and 0.006mm on the Z-axis. The AF70 model achieves 0.010mm and 0.008mm respectively. Both models deliver unidirectional repeat positioning accuracy of 0.004mm.

Even more critical is surface roughness. Under test conditions (copper electrode, S136 mirror steel), the AF Series achieves optimal surface roughness of Ra ≤ 0.1μm – entering the realm of “mirror finishing.“ The machined surface is reflective enough for direct use in injection molding with virtually no polishing required. For manufacturers of precision connectors, optical molds, and medical devices, this capability saves substantial manual polishing costs.

One user reported: “We machine S136 mold steel on the AF50 – the surface is like a mirror. Customers accept it directly, no polishing needed. With our old machine, polishers worked all day.“

3.Structural Design – The Foundation for Stable Accuracy

The mechanical structure of a die-sinker EDM machine directly determines long-term accuracy stability. The AF Series features a Ram-type sliding head with a fixed worktable – meaning no matter how heavy the workpiece (AF50 max load 1000kg, AF70 max load 2000kg), motion axis accuracy remains unaffected. Multiple mold makers report that the AF Series maintains stable accuracy even after long-period machining of large die-casting and bumper molds – with no dimensional deviation from structural deformation.

The integrated structure (main unit, tank, and electrical cabinet) simplifies installation and relocation – only leveling and power connection are required.

4.How Does the AF Series Perform in Discharge Control and Machining Efficiency?

The discharge power supply is the “heart“ of a die-sinker EDM machine. The AF Series uses an all-digital pulse power supply that precisely detects and controls every discharge pulse. Combined with fuzzy logic algorithms, the system senses the discharge gap in real time and automatically adjusts pulse energy and servo feed speed – keeping machining in optimal condition.

For operators, this means no more trial cuts to “guess“ parameters. After selecting the material and machining requirements, the system automatically matches the optimal conditions and dynamically adjusts during processing – ensuring both efficiency and low electrode wear. Users report significantly fewer arcing and secondary discharge issues when machining deep narrow slots and multi-cavity molds on the AF Series compared to previous machines, with better machining stability.

In terms of electrode wear control, the AF Series uses advanced discharge control and fuzzy logic algorithms to keep relative volumetric electrode wear at a low level (≤1% under test conditions).

The AF Series comes standard with 50A current, with an optional 100A high-current configuration. During roughing, high current removes material quickly. During finishing, the system automatically switches to low-current, high-frequency mode for surface quality. Combined with automatic orbiting (circular, square, vector, polygon, etc.), efficiency is further improved during finishing. For mold enterprises requiring frequent roughing, the optional 100A configuration delivers noticeable efficiency gains.

5.What Automation and Expansion Options Does the AF Series Support?

The AF Series supports optional C-axis (CNC indexing) and AEC (Automatic Electrode Changer) – up to 4 tools for AF50 and up to 5 tools for AF70. This enables four-axis simultaneous machining (e.g., helical grooves, helical gears) and continuous automatic multi-electrode processing – unattended night-shift operation.

On the software side, the Windows-based CNC system features an intuitive interface with a 17-inch touch screen and pendant control box. The built-in expert process parameter database covers common material combinations including steel, copper, cemented carbide, and titanium. Operators simply call up the code, and the system automatically sets parameters – no repeated trial cuts required.

6.Selection Advice for Precision Die-sinker EDM Machines

If you‘re evaluating precision die-sinker EDM machines, here are some points worth noting:

Accuracy verification: Request sample workpieces machined from typical materials, measure Ra with a roughness tester, and inspect for micro-cracks under a microscope.

Travel matching: List the dimensions and weights of your 3-5 largest workpieces and choose a machine with at least 20% margin. The AF50 is suitable for small-to-medium molds and precision parts; the AF70 is designed for large automotive panel molds.

Configuration priorities: On a limited budget, prioritize automatic orbiting, the process parameter library, and a reliable discharge power supply. C-axis and AEC can be added later as your business grows.

The NOVICK AF Series is a Chinese high-end die-sinker EDM machine with solid performance, flexible configuration, and dependable service. It offers balanced performance in machining accuracy, surface quality, efficiency control, and automation expandability. If you‘re looking for a Chinese-made die-sinker EDM machine that meets the demands of precision mold and part machining, the AF Series is worth putting on your shortlist.