Optronics Edger Question / 8 Base Wrap Lenses

[cmhargrove]

I need help from lab pros that currently use, or have used Optronics edgers.

I do quite a bit of polycarb wrap sunglass work. I have a Mr. Blue Edger that I thought would help ease the throughput, but it is slow on wraps. It uses a small grinding wheel during the final phase of the wrap cycle, and it often doesn't cut deep enough to bypass the back edge of the frame (2.0mm limitation). I used to have an old Optronics edger years ago (DVT), and it used to be really great at shelving. It was a pain to change collets and cutters, but it worked great. So, I thought I would ask about the capabilities of some "newer" used Optronics patternless edgers and see if you think they would accomplish my goal.

My goal: A dual-cut cycle for 8 base polycarb wraps. Cycle 1 - standard bevel (front orientation). Cycle 2 - Shelving blade - shelf off the back of the lens, beginning right past the apex of the first bevel. That way, the lens snaps in perfectly without hitting the back of the frame.

Could this be achieved by:
Horizon III ?
6E ?
7E ?

This is an "extra edger" for me, so I really don't want to spend a bunch of money if I don't have to - just something that can crank out 5-10 wrap sunglasses per day with the described technique.

[scriptfiller]

I know on the 7E you can change-out the entire cutting spindle for different applications. Sounds like a lengthy procedure. Do a little research and see if it makes financial sense to invest in a "specialized" edger versus sending the work out for finishing to a larger lab.

[Mick]

I use a 7E and it has a variety of blades for different sport frames, but I have not tried the shelving blade to cut the backside shelf.

[Jacqui]

Horizon 3 works wonders

[PRECISIONLAB]

We use a 7E as well changing only to specialized blades based on frame type/required bevel. There are limitations however to shelf depth but we are able to process about 90% of wraps. We have a setting which slows are settings for cutting and set bevel @ 1.5 fixed.

[mdeimler]

7E, ftw...changing hubs is a breeze.

[cmhargrove]

Horizon 3 works wonders

I would love to be able to do this on a Horizon III, because I can pick up a used model for under $3k.

So, does the Horizon III have multiple cutting assemblies, or just one (changing collets/blades for each different type of cutter)? I thought from what I remember, the 7E can start a cut on one assembly, then move to another during the same cycle. I just wasn't sure if the Horizon III could also do this.

Thanks

[Jacqui]

I would love to be able to do this on a Horizon III, because I can pick up a used model for under $3k.

So, does the Horizon III have multiple cutting assemblies, or just one (changing collets/blades for each different type of cutter)? I thought from what I remember, the 7E can start a cut on one assembly, then move to another during the same cycle. I just wasn't sure if the Horizon III could also do this.

Thanks

You need to change the blades on an H3, but there are special blades just for 8 base lenses. the 8 base blades also make the shelf cut so you don't need a second pass. Leo Hadley at VSI can probably tell you more, he has worked rebuilding quite a few of them.

I agree, with the price of them every lab should have one.

[sharpstick777]

I hear a new Optronics 7-X is coming to VEW, with better shelving functions. But its unconfirmed.