Machine Comparison
Flow Mach 150 vs Flow Mach 700
Flow International vs Flow International · CNC Waterjet
Summary
The Flow Mach 150 and Flow Mach 700 are both from Flow International's cnc waterjet lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Flow International ecosystem. The Flow Mach 700 shows specification advantages in 4 categories, though the Flow Mach 150 may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a cnc waterjet.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Flow Mach 150 | Flow Mach 700 |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | ±0.076 mm (±0.003 in) | +/- 0.025 mm (0.001 in) ▲ |
| Table Sizes | 1,300x1,300 mm to 4,000x2,000 mm | 1,500 x 3,000 mm to 4,000 x 8,000 mm ▲ |
| Pump Type | HyperJet direct-drive | Flow HyperJet dual-intensifier (up to 150 HP) |
| Max Pressure | 60,000 PSI (4,137 bar); 94,000 PSI optional | 94,000 PSI (6,480 bar) ▲ |
| Max Cutting Thickness | 200+ mm (8+ in) in steel | 250+ mm (10+ in) ▲ |
| Price Range | $120,000-$250,000 (new); $70,000-$160,000 (used 2016-2020) ▲ | $400,000 - $800,000+; fully loaded exceed $1,000,000 |
Advantages
Flow Mach 150
- More competitive pricing at $120,000-$250,000 (new); $70,000-$160,000 (used 2016-2020) compared to $400,000 - $800,000+; fully loaded exceed $1,000,000
- Backed by Flow International's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Job shops needing a versatile cutter that handles any material without multiple specialized machines
Flow Mach 700
- Tighter positioning accuracy at +/- 0.025 mm (0.001 in) for precision-critical work
- Superior table sizes at 1,500 x 3,000 mm to 4,000 x 8,000 mm vs 1,300x1,300 mm to 4,000x2,000 mm
- Superior max pressure at 94,000 PSI (6,480 bar) vs 60,000 PSI (4,137 bar); 94,000 PSI optional
- Superior max cutting thickness at 250+ mm (10+ in) vs 200+ mm (8+ in) in steel
Verdict
The Flow Mach 700 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in Positioning Accuracy and table sizes. However, the Flow Mach 150 remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.