Maxiem Waterjet Cutting Machines

April 01, 2014

OMAX Corp. reportedly takes the price-to-performance ratio in abrasive waterjet cutting technology a huge leap forward with the launch of its next generation MAXIEM machines. Now categorized as JetMachining Centers, these significantly advanced versions pack even more productivity enhancing features that will further increase output and boost profitability.

The next generation MAXIEM JetMachining Center product line encompasses five machine models that far exceed customer demands for cost-efficient, yet high-performance waterjet cutting technology. Never before has such a high level of abrasive waterjet technology been so accessible to fabrication and job shops, OEMs, metal service centers, trade schools, and architectural, sign, stone and gasket shops as it is with MAXIEM machines.

The next generation MAXIEM lineup continues the tradition of easy-to-use, reliable and efficient abrasive waterjet machines designed and built in the United States. The most recent versions feature updated linear drive systems, an innovative Z-axis core with optional multi-axis cutting heads and the lowest ceiling height in the industry, along with several additional machine enhancements that include faster cutting speeds, streamlined abrasive hopper designs, selfleveling base legs, and more. Shops gain the highest levels of waterjet cutting capability at the lowest possible capital equipment investment.

MAXIEM machines are equipped with OMAX's industry leading Intelli-TRAX linear drive system that utilizes brushless servo motors, integrated servo drives and high precision linear encoders that provide constant and continuous feedback on the actual cutting head position. In addition to increased part cutting accuracy, the advanced drive system delivers much faster and smoother motion.

OMAX configures the next generation MAXIEM with an all-new universal Z-axis core equipped with a MAXJET 5 integrated diamond nozzle. This completely revamped universal Z-axis design with an updated modular head interface features 12 inches of controlled height travel. Its innovative design allows users to easily switch from a simple fixed cutting head to the versatile A-Jet multi-axis cutting head in a matter of minutes.

MAXIEM machines build on OMAX's 20 years of direct-drive pump technology with the 50,000-psi pump that includes Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) technology for precise cutting pressure control. The pumps deliver more cutting power per kilowatt than intensifier-type pumps and are available in 20-, 30- and 40-horsepower versions for MAXIEM machines.

The new all-in-one Windows 8 controllers on the MAXIEM machines come pre-loaded with the powerful OMAX Intelli-MAX Software Suite and feature large 23-inch display screens that provide easy viewing of part files and tool paths. The Intelli-MAX software makes it easy to generate complex geometries and produce quality parts from virtually any type of material. The software is extremely user friendly for both the novice operator and the skilled machinist. The software also features Intelli-VISOR, OMAX's system monitoring for predictable machine maintenance capability.

In addition to models with larger tank sizes and those specific ones featuring bigger cutting areas for processing standard size sheets of material from end to end, all the next generation MAXIEM machines sport a rigid tank design with leveling feet that maintains accuracy while simplifying installation. The optional Rapid Water Level Control fits into all the MAXIEM JetMachining Centers and allows for quiet and clean submerged cutting.

Related Glossary Terms

  • abrasive

    abrasive

    Substance used for grinding, honing, lapping, superfinishing and polishing. Examples include garnet, emery, corundum, silicon carbide, cubic boron nitride and diamond in various grit sizes.

  • abrasive waterjet ( AWJ)

    abrasive waterjet ( AWJ)

    System that uses high-pressure waterjets in combination with a slurry of fine abrasive grains to machine materials. See waterjet cutting.

  • centers

    centers

    Cone-shaped pins that support a workpiece by one or two ends during machining. The centers fit into holes drilled in the workpiece ends. Centers that turn with the workpiece are called “live” centers; those that do not are called “dead” centers.

  • waterjet cutting

    waterjet cutting

    Fine, high-pressure (up to 50,000 psi or greater), high-velocity jet of water directed by a small nozzle to cut material. Velocity of the stream can exceed twice the speed of sound. Nozzle opening ranges from between 0.004" to 0.016" (0.l0mm to 0.41mm), producing a very narrow kerf. See AWJ, abrasive waterjet.