The OMAX OptiMAX 60X Precision JetMachining Center stands as a testament to three decades of concentrated engineering and manufacturing expertise. Touted as the most advanced waterjet in the world, it promises unparalleled precision and versatility in material cutting. This review explores the capabilities, design, and technological advancements of the OptiMAX 60X, providing insights into why it might be the next essential addition to your production floor.
OMAX OptiMAX 60X Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Footprint | 22′ 8″ x 11′ 11″ (6.91 m x 3.63 m) |
| Height | 9′ 9″ (2.97 m) |
| Operating Weight | 36,118 lb (16,383 kg) |
| Weight (Tank Empty) | 8,500 lb (3,855 kg) |
| X-Y Cutting Travel | 10′ x 5′ 2″ (3.04 m x 1.57 m) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 12″ (304 mm) |
| Table Size | 12′ 6″ x 6′ 2″ (3.81 m x 1.88 m) |
| Material Supports Slats | 4″ x 1/8″ Galvanized Steel |
| Maximum Supported Material Load | 400 lbs/sq ft (1,950 kg/sq meter) |
| Electrical Requirements | 3-Phase, 380-480 VAC ±10%, 50-60 Hz |
| Noise Level | Below 80 dBA at one meter for submerged cutting |
| Speed | 350 in/min (8.89 m/min) |
| Linear Positional Accuracy | ±0.001″ (±0.025 mm) |
| Repeatability | ±0.001″ (±0.025 mm) |
| Ballbar Circularity | ±0.003″ (±0.076 mm) |
Design and Build
Boasting a robust footprint of 22′ 8″ x 11′ 11″ and a cutting envelope of 10′ x 5’ 2”, the OptiMAX 60X is designed for heavy-duty industrial applications. The system’s total operating weight reaches a substantial 36,118 lb, supporting an impressive maximum material load of 400 lbs per square foot. Despite its size, the machine’s design emphasizes efficiency and space conservation, featuring the industry’s lowest ceiling height requirement.
The OptiMAX 60X’s precision is noteworthy, offering linear position accuracy of ±0.001″ and repeatability, ensuring consistent and reliable cutting results. This level of precision is maintained across a variety of materials and thicknesses, from metals and composites to glass and plastics, thanks to its advanced control systems and robust construction.
Quick Features Look
Standard Features
- IntelliMAX Premium Software: Backed by our exclusive software, enhancing operational efficiency and ease of use.
- IntelliTRAX System: Features an exclusive abrasive jet linear drive system that delivers speeds up to 350 in/min (8.9 m/min) with real-time closed-loop positioning feedback for precision.
- Programmable Z-Axis: Offers a 12-inch (305 mm) programmable Z axis, boasting the lowest ceiling height requirement in the industry.
- Rapid Water Level Control: Standard feature that ensures cleaner, safer, and quieter submerged cutting, typically maintaining noise levels below 80 dBA.
OMAX Benefits
- Local Manufacturing: Designed and manufactured at the OMAX factory in Kent, Washington, USA, ensuring high quality and reliability.
- No Heat-Affected Zones: The cutting process does not create heat-affected zones or mechanical stresses, preserving the integrity of the materials.
- Versatile Material Handling: Capable of machining a wide range of materials and thicknesses, including metals, composites, glass, and plastics.
- Efficient Setup: Requires no tool changes and minimal fixturing, which significantly reduces setup time.
Service & Training
- Lifetime Training: Unlimited free training for the life of your machine, ensuring your team is always up to speed with the latest operational techniques.
- Software Upgrades: Unlimited software upgrades are provided for the life of the machine, keeping it current with the latest improvements.
- Warranty: Comes with a 2-year / 4000-hour limited warranty, offering peace of mind and protection for your investment.
- Onsite Training: Includes 3 days of onsite training upon installation to ensure your team is fully equipped to use the machine effectively from day one.
Cutting Technology and Performance
Central to the OptiMAX 60X’s performance is the IntelliTRAX linear drive system, which facilitates rapid movement at 350 inches per minute while maintaining real-time closed-loop positioning feedback. This ensures acute accuracy during the cutting process, minimizing deviations and errors.
The machine also features a 12-inch programmable Z-axis, allowing for versatile cutting dynamics and handling of different material sizes with precision. The inclusion of Rapid Water Level Control is another standout feature, significantly reducing noise levels to below 80 dBA during submerged cutting and enhancing the overall safety and cleanliness of the operating environment.
Pump and Power Efficiency
The EnduroMAX pump, integral to the OptiMAX 60X, maximizes uptime with maintenance cycles only required every 1,000 hours. It provides 30% more cutting power compared to standard pumps, enhancing production capabilities. Moreover, its Variable Frequency Drive minimizes startup power consumption and offers better operational flexibility, making the OptiMAX 60X both powerful and energy-efficient.
Software and Usability
Every OptiMAX 60X is equipped with OMAX’s exclusive IntelliMAX Premium Software, which simplifies the operation process and enhances the machine’s capabilities through unlimited, free software upgrades for the lifetime of the machine. The software’s intuitive interface and powerful features allow operators to maximize the machine’s capabilities without extensive training.
Training and Support
OMAX does not skimp on customer support and training, providing unlimited free training for the duration of the machine’s life. Additionally, three days of onsite training upon installation ensure that your team can operate the OptiMAX 60X effectively from day one. The machine’s 2-year / 4000-hour limited warranty further underscores OMAX’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Applications and Versatility
The OptiMAX 60X excels across a broad range of applications. Its ability to cut without creating heat-affected zones or mechanical stresses preserves the integrity of the workpiece, which is crucial when working with complex materials and intricate designs. The lack of tool changes and minimal fixturing required also dramatically reduces setup times, increasing throughput and efficiency.
OMAX OptiMAX 60X Pros and Cons
Pros
- Advanced Software Integration: Backed by IntelliMAX Premium Software, enhancing usability and operational efficiency.
- High-Speed Precision Cutting: IntelliTRAX system provides rapid traverse at 350 in/min with real-time feedback for precise cutting.
- Low Installation Requirement: Features the industry’s lowest ceiling height requirement with a 12-inch programmable Z-axis.
- Quiet Operation: Rapid Water Level Control ensures operations are below 80 dBA, creating a safer and more comfortable work environment.
- No Material Limitations: Capable of cutting a broad range of materials and thicknesses without creating mechanical stresses or heat-affected zones.
- Reduced Setup Time: Minimal fixturing and no tool changes needed, dramatically reducing setup times and increasing throughput.
- Comprehensive Support and Training: Offers unlimited free training, software upgrades, and includes extensive warranty and onsite training.
- Energy Efficient: Incorporates features like a Variable Frequency Drive that reduces power consumption during startup.
Cons
- High Initial Investment: The advanced technology and capabilities come at a significant upfront cost, which might be prohibitive for smaller operations.
- Space Requirements: Despite its efficient design, the large footprint requires considerable floor space, which might not be feasible for smaller workshops.
- Complexity: While the software enhances usability, the complexity of the system might require a steeper learning curve for operators unfamiliar with advanced CNC machinery.
- Maintenance Needs: Although maintenance is infrequent, it can be intensive and might require specialized technical support.
- Dependence on Power Supply: Requires a stable 3-Phase power supply, which might not be readily available in all industrial settings or regions.
Environmental and Operational Considerations
Designed and manufactured in Kent, Washington, USA, the OptiMAX 60X reflects OMAX’s dedication to quality and local production. The machine’s environmental impact is mitigated by its efficient use of water and power, and its design reduces the overall noise and waste associated with cutting processes.
The OptiMAX 60X is designed with operator safety and environmental responsibility in mind. The Rapid Water Level Control not only reduces noise pollution but also minimizes the creation of airborne particles, creating a safer workplace. Furthermore, the waterjet cutting process is inherently cleaner compared to thermal or mechanical cutting techniques, which can produce hazardous waste and toxic emissions.
These features make the OptiMAX 60X an excellent choice for companies looking to maintain or achieve environmental compliance and safety standards.
Conclusion
The OMAX OptiMAX 60X Precision JetMachining Center represents a pinnacle of waterjet cutting technology. With its advanced features, robust support and training options, and exceptional precision, it is an ideal solution for industries looking to enhance their cutting capabilities.
Whether you’re dealing with metals, composites, or more delicate materials like glass and plastics, the OptiMAX 60X promises a blend of speed, precision, and versatility that can transform your production capabilities. For businesses aiming to push the boundaries of what’s possible in material fabrication, the OptiMAX 60X offers a compelling, high-performance solution.