OMAX 80160

Intelli-MAX is OMAX's integrated CAD/CAM and machine control software that uses a mathematical model of abrasive waterjet cutting to automatically optimize cutting parameters for each segment of the programmed cutting path. For straight runs, Intelli-MAX accelerates to maximum speed for the specified quality level. In corners, curves, and tight radii, the software automatically reduces speed to avoid overcutting and rounding of internal corners. The software also manages lead-in/lead-out moves, pierce point location, and tab positioning. The result is consistent cut quality across the entire part without the operator manually programming speed changes at every corner — a significant advantage over manual speed management in conventional waterjet G-code.

At standard 90-degree orientation, abrasive waterjet produces a cut with slight taper — the kerf is wider at the top (where the jet enters) than at the bottom (where it exits). On thin material (<6 mm), the taper is negligible (< 0.1 mm per side). On thick material (25–50 mm), the taper can be 0.5–2.0 mm per side — significant for precision parts. Dynamic Waterjet is OMAX's optional 5-axis cutting head that tilts the waterjet nozzle slightly (typically 1–5 degrees) opposite to the natural taper, compensating for the taper and producing near-perpendicular cut walls. This enables tight-tolerance parts from thick material and high-quality bevel cuts for weld preparation.

Flow International (FlowCut/Mach series) offers higher maximum pump pressure (87,000 psi vs OMAX's 60,000 psi) — higher pressure cuts faster on material over 50 mm. Flow's HyPrecision pump design is well-regarded for reliability in heavy production environments. OMAX's Intelli-MAX software is widely praised for ease of use, automatic quality optimization, and the taper compensation algorithm. OMAX is particularly strong in job shops and academic institutions; Flow is preferred in heavy production aerospace and shipbuilding environments. Both are premium waterjet brands — choice often depends on local service availability and specific application requirements.

OMAX EnduroMAX pumps typically operate at abrasive flow rates of 250–750 g/min depending on the cutting application and orifice diameter. On the 60 HP pump at 0.014 in orifice: approximately 500–600 g/min for mild steel cutting; 300–400 g/min for precision aluminum. Garnet abrasive costs $0.30–0.60/kg — at 500 g/min, abrasive cost is $9–18/hour. For a typical production shop running 6–8 hours/day, abrasive cost is $50–140/day. OMAX's software allows setting abrasive flow rate per material/thickness — the parameter database includes recommended values for common materials, enabling consistent abrasive usage without manual management.

Yes — waterjet cutting is one of the preferred methods for glass and stone. For standard window glass and mirrors, pure waterjet (no abrasive) at reduced pressure pierces and cuts without thermal shock. For thick glass (>12 mm), decorative tiles, granite, marble, and engineered stone: abrasive waterjet at low feed rates with proper piercing techniques cuts cleanly. Tempered glass is the exception — tempered glass has internal stress that causes shattering when the cut path approaches the edge; tempered glass generally cannot be waterjet cut. Granite and marble cut beautifully with abrasive waterjet — kerf of 1.0–1.2 mm produces tight-fitting stone mosaic work and countertop inlays.