Traction Drive Waterjet Reduces Throughput Time

The 60120 JetMachining Center is a large-format machine built for quick, accurate cutting of large parts or multiple parts out of stock as large as 5 × 10 ft. According to the company, the machine's traction drive contributes its high accuracy. The drive closes a positioning loop with linear encoders in the same manner as a linear motor, resulting in a robust, reliable system that is suited to harsh environments and requires little maintenance, the company says. Additionally, the traction drive is said to enable fast traverse speeds, which can greatly reduce throughput times when machining multiple and nested parts. A bridge-style Y-axis design allows the cutting head to move past the catcher tank for unobstructed loading of materials. The waterjet is able to cut a variety of materials, including ceramics, composites, plastic, glass and stone, as well as metals such as aluminum, tool steel, stainless steel, mild steel and titanium-all with an accuracy of motion to 0.003". The waterjet comes standard with the company's motion control technology, which incorporates Windows XP software. The system can calculate the velocity of a tool path at more than 2,000 points per inch, allowing for complete control over the motion of the abrasive jet stream. This enables precise, rapid machining, the company says. Other standard features include a durable abrasive feed system, a MaxJet 5 diamond nozzle assembly and a high-pressure direct-drive pump.