Waterjet-Based Micromachining

With its new MicroMAX JetMachining Center, OMAX proves the speed, versatility and accuracy of abrasive waterjet technology now applies to the cutting of parts or part features smaller than 300 microns from a wide range of materials, including exotic metals, advanced composites, polymer thermoplastics and glass.  Ideal for prototype development and production runs, the MicroMAX is a highly rigid machine with a table size of 2 feet 4 inches by 2 feet 4 inches and an X-Y cutting travel of 2 feet by 2 feet. It utilizes advanced high-precision linear encoders, innovative vibration isolation and intuitive software control systems to achieve a position repeatability of 2.5 microns (0.0001”) and a positioning accuracy of approximately 15 microns (0.0006”). 

The MicroMAX comes equipped with a high precision 7/15 Mini MAXJET5i nozzle that features a 0.007” orifice and 0.015” mixing tube combination for quickly and accurately cutting delicate, complex patterns. Because it forms a jet stream carrying an extremely fine abrasive, the nozzle can produce a kerf as small as 0.015”. The machine also has advanced pressure controls for piercing delicate materials.Like all OMAX JetMachining Centers, the MicroMAX is a flexible, cost-effective and beneficial alternative to conventional machining operations. Because waterjet-based machining is a cold-cutting process, it eliminates thermal stress in the workpiece, preventing hardening and warping. The MicroMAX also enables manufacturers across all industry segments to accomplish quick turnaround of accurate parts without the hassle of tool changes or complex fixturing, as well as achieve smooth surface finishes without the need for secondary machining.