Flow Flow Mach 500
Key Specifications
Rapid Traverse
Accuracy
Repeatability
cutting method
max pressure
pump options
Overview
The Flow Mach 500 is a performance-class waterjet cutting system that combines high precision with flexible table configurations, making it Flow's most versatile platform for production waterjet cutting. Available in five table sizes ranging from 2020 (2 x 2 m) up to the massive 4080 (4 x 8 m), the Mach 500 handles everything from individual precision parts to full-sheet nested production cutting of large panels and plates.
The Mach 500 supports Flow's complete pump lineup from 60,000 PSI (4,150 bar) with HyPlex Prime and MotoJet pumps to 94,000 PSI (6,500 bar) with the HyperJet. Positioning accuracy is +/- 0.0127 mm (+/- 0.0005 in) with repeatability of +/- 0.02 mm (+/- 0.0008 in), matching the NX Pro for precision. Rapid traverse reaches 17.8 m/min (700 in/min) with 0.1 g acceleration, enabling aggressive speeds that minimize non-productive motion on large nested layouts.
Z-axis travel options of 305 mm (12 in) or 610 mm (24 in) accommodate everything from thin sheet cutting to thick plate and 3D applications. The machine supports Dynamic Waterjet and Dynamic Waterjet XD cutting heads for taper compensation and bevel cutting. Both FlowMaster and FlowXpert software suites are available for 2D and 3D cutting programming.
The Mach 500 competes with the OMAX 80X, Bystronic ByJet Flex, and WardJet Z-Series in the performance waterjet segment. New systems price between $200,000 and $450,000 depending on table size, pump selection, and cutting head configuration. The 4080 and larger configurations serve industries like shipbuilding, structural steel, and heavy fabrication where large format cutting is essential. The Mach 500 represents the sweet spot between the compact Mach 300 and the premium NX Pro.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Cutting Method | Abrasive waterjet |
| Max Pressure | Up to 94,000 PSI (6,500 bar) with HyperJet |
| Pump Options | HyPlex Prime, MotoJet, MotoJet X (60K PSI), HyperJet (94K PSI) |
| Table Sizes | 2020 (2x2m), 3020 (3.05x2m), 3060 (3.05x6m), 4020 (4x2m), 4080 (4x8m) |
| Positioning Accuracy | +/- 0.0127 mm (+/- 0.0005 in) |
| Repeatability | ± 0.0008 in |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 17.8 m/min (700 in/min) |
| Acceleration | 0.1 g |
| Z Axis Travel | 12 in, 24 in |
| Cutting Head | Standard, Dynamic Waterjet, or Dynamic Waterjet XD |
| Control Software | FlowMaster or FlowXpert |
| Drive System | AC servo motors with linear guides |
| Rapid Traverse Maximum | 700 in/min |
| Linear Positional Accuracy | ± 0.0005 in |
| Work Envelope | Mach 500 2020: 6’-6” x 6’-6”Mach 500 3020: 10’-0” x 6’-6”Mach 500 3060: 10'-0" x 20'-0"Mach 500 4020: 13'-1" x 6'-6"Mach 500 4080: 13'-1" x 26'-0" |
| Ballbar Circularity | ± 0.0025 in |
Specifications sourced from flowwaterjet.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Five table configurations from 2x2m to 4x8m provide unmatched flexibility for different part sizes and production volumes
- Positioning accuracy of +/- 0.0127 mm matches the premium NX Pro at a lower price point for precision-critical applications
- HyperJet 94,000 PSI compatibility delivers 30-50% faster cutting on hard materials compared to standard 60,000 PSI
- 700 in/min rapid traverse with 0.1 g acceleration minimizes non-cutting time on large nested production layouts
- 24-inch Z-axis option accommodates the thickest materials and 3D cutting applications in the Flow lineup
- Scalable from compact 2020 shop use to large-format 4080 production cutting within a single platform
Limitations
- Large table configurations (3060, 4080) require substantial floor space and foundation preparation
- HyperJet 94K PSI pump operation requires specialized maintenance skills and higher consumable budgets
- Price range of $200K-$450K represents a significant capital investment compared to entry-level waterjet alternatives
- Abrasive consumption on 94K PSI systems at production speeds generates $25-$40/hour in garnet costs
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New Mach 500 systems price between $200,000 and $450,000. A 2020 table with HyPlex Prime 60K PSI pump starts around $200,000. Large 4080 tables with HyperJet 94K PSI pump and Dynamic Waterjet XD head reach $450,000. Operating costs run $20-$40/hour depending on pump and configuration.
02
The Mach 500 and NX Pro share comparable positioning accuracy (+/- 0.0127 mm) and rapid traverse (700 in/min). The NX Pro adds automated abrasive recycling and VFD energy savings as standard features. The Mach 500 offers more table size options including very large formats (4080). Choose the NX Pro for maximum operating efficiency; the Mach 500 for table size flexibility.
03
The 4080 table provides a 4 x 8 meter (13 x 26 ft) work envelope, handling full 4x8-foot sheet stock and larger fabrications in a single setup. With material extending beyond the table edges, even larger parts can be cut using indexing techniques, though accuracy at the index boundaries is reduced.
04
Table size is determined at purchase and cannot be upgraded in the field. However, the pump, cutting head, and software can be upgraded. If you anticipate growing into larger work, consider buying the larger table from the start — the incremental cost is much less than buying a second machine.
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