Large-scale abrasive waterjet machining

With the turnaround in commercial aviation, and the jet business continues to lag behind, the commercial aviation industry remains full of optimism despite mixed economic signals. The long term outlook for this segment is positive, as there continues to be strong growth prospects for the business jet market, particularly in the Middle East, according to PwC's Global Aerospace & Defence Practice.

In response to a rise in demand for large-scale precision machining from manufacturers serving a variety of industries such as aerospace, OMAX Corp. has announced the introduction of its 120X JetMachining Centre, which has been specifically designed for manufacturers with large-scale abrasive waterjet requirements.

120X JetMachining centre

Four specific models of the 120X are available, with lengths of 13 feet, 20 feet, 26 feet and 32 feet. Each of the models is 10 feet in width and features work envelopes capable of handling standard domestic and international sheet material sizes. By integrating proven technologies, the 120X is in the mould of the established 80X line. By doubling the traverse speed, the machine ensures the high productivity levels that have come to be associated with abrasive waterjet machining.

Featuring a patent pending drive system with closed loop, high pole vector drives, the 120X achieves accurate and precise movement. The innovative Intelli-TRAX traction drive further ensures higher accuracy. The traction drive system makes the 120X a robust and reliable system that is well suited to harsh environments and requires little maintenance. The work table comes standard with submersible cutting capability.

The 120X incorporates OMAX's Intelli- MAX Premium Software, which runs on a Windows operating system. The system can calculate the velocity of a tool path at over 2,000 points per inch, allowing for complete control over the motion of an abrasive jet, and enabling precise, rapid machining. Additionally, a USB port on the Y-axis bridge allows direct connection to a machine controller and additional E-stop/ Pause button pendant. This allows for more convenient operation when working near the cutting zone. The 120X has the ability to cut with an accuracy of motion up to +/- 0.005". Additionally, it does not require tool changes or complex fixturing, reducing setup times by at least 50%.

Waterjet today

Waterjet cutting technology has matured from its very early days in the 1950s when it was initially studied for use in cutting lumber. Today, waterjet cutting processes are one of the most versatile and fastest growing machining operations in the world and 5-axis waterjet machines are currently available.

Waterjets can accomplish cutting tasks in less time than conventional technologies, and sometimes they can do things that other technologies cannot.

Growing defence, aerospace industry

Raytheon is expected to establish local manufacturing plants when it upgrades the United Arab Emirates' Patriot missile systems, boosting a burgeoning defence and aerospace industry that's becoming the most advanced in the Arab world.

Abu Dhabi signed defence contracts worth $1.8 billion in February as part of its drive to diversify its economy, which is primarily oil exports, principally from its own fields.

The growing confrontation between Iran and the United States and its Persian Gulf allies and the massive arms drive this has engendered in the regional states, primarily Saudi Arabia and the Emirates, has given impetus to Abu Dhabi's drive to develop its own defence industry.

These days, the emirate isNike Air max Dominate