We had been eyeing it for some time, and got as far as second prize. Then at the last edition of the BIEMH in Bilbao (April 13-18), we finally won the Prize for Design in the removal section. It's on display behind glass at the ONA premises in Durango. In the words of the Judges' Panel, this prize was awarded "for the fine contribution in design to a range of products in which ergonomics and safety are constant requirements." The biggest machine-tool firms were present at the event.

On exhibit were the latest developments in EDM, grinding, milling, pressing, sheet cutting, industrial robotics, turning, etc.

ONA's Arion K 500, a revolutionary machine whose many functions include unbeatable taper cutting, was the unit chosen.

José María Onandía, General Manager, was handed a prize by Josu Jon Imaz, Minister of Industry and Spokesman in the Basque Government. This was an acknowledgement of what we have achieved in research and development, but also it was a major incentive to further work.

The coveted Arion K 500

Awarded a prize for innovation at the BIEMH, this is the first wire EDM machine that along the entire length of its X and Y axes can cut at a height of 400 mm (15.75 in) with a 30º inclination. A major step forward is to be found in the travel lengths of 700 mm (27,56 in) and 500 mm (19.68 in). It was possible before now to cut at the same height and inclination, but not at an arbitrary point in the X-Y plane. That's why as we moved away from the centre of the either axis to perform the cutting, there was a gradual fall in the inclination that could be achieved. With this machine ONA broadens the horizon for wire EDM.

• Fixed bed means a workpiece can weigh up to 5000 kg (11.000 lb.).
• 400 mm cutting height in immersion mode.
• Work tank with volume of 1500 mm x 1200 mm x 400 mm (59.06 x 47.24 x 15.75).
• New automatic threading system will accommodate a broad range of wire types and diameters (ONA patent).
• New, faster, friendlier CNC for a better interface between user and machine.
• Filter free of maintenance costs (ONA patent).

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