A stainless steel dragon made on the OMAX
A - B - C - D - E - F - G - H - I - J - K - L - M - N - O - P - Q - R - S - T - U - V - W - X - Y - Z
A
Abrasive
Material entrained within the high pressure water stream to speed the machining process. Machining a hard material requires the use of abrasive. Some soft materials such as foam can be cut without abrasive either by using a water only nozzle, or by plugging the abrasive line with a piece of tape to prevent air from entering.
The abrasive jet mathematical model used in OMAX assumes the use of garnet abrasive. There are many other abrasives available. If other abrasives are used, simply adjust the "abrasive index" in the software and the cutting model will be adjusted accordingly. Olivine sand from foundry supply houses is a soft abrasive that works well with aluminum.
Abrasive Flow Rate
The rate at which abrasives are blown through the mixing tube. Usually measured in Lbs/Min or Kg/Min.
Abrasivejet
A machining tool that combines high-pressure water with an abrasive such as garnet. The water and garnet are mixed and emerge through a narrow orifice at high-speed. As this "jet" is moved across material, it quickly erodes the material, cutting through the material.
Abrasive Jet Cross Section Image
Attenuator
An attenuator is a pressure vessel that maintains output pressure for a constant water flow, compensating for uneven pressure generated by some pumps. (Also called an accumulator.)
B
Barrel Error (See Also: Taper)
The Barrel Error is the kerf width at mid-thickness minus the average of top and bottom kerf width. A "+" barrel error indicates a drum-shaped kerf.
Barrel Error Per Side
The Barrel Error Per Side is the barrel error divided by two.
Barrel Taper
Barrel taper is a type of taper where the middle is wider than the top or bottom. Barrel taper tends to occur in thick materials.
Barrel Taper
Bow
Bow determines the curvature of an entity. Bow can range between -1 and +1. Entities in Layout and Make are defined by their X and Y position, Bow, and Quality.
Bow specifies the curvature of the entity:
- Bow of zero means that it is a line.
- Bow of one means that it is a semicircle.
- Bow of 0.5 means that it is somewhere between a line and a semicircle.
- A bow of infinity means that it is a complete circle. Because the computer cannot deal with infinity, the bow is limited to between -1 and 1. Therefore all circles are actually two arcs with a bow of 1 (or -1).
You can edit the bow of an entity by using the Inquire command, and changing the value for bow.
If Theta represents the angle between the two end-points of an arc, then the bow of the arc = TAN(Theta/4).
You do not need to concern yourself with bow unless you want to make your own ORD files from BASIC or other programming languages.
Burr
Burr refers to a rough edge on material that has been machined. On the OMAX, there is only a very slight burr with most materials, which only shows up under extreme magnification. In very thin materials, more burr may be evident.
Burr on an aluminum part magnified 200X (the striations in the aluminum were present in the original material)
C
CAD / CAM
CAD = Computer Aided Design
A computer program that provides drawing tools for designing objects. Layout is a CAD program.
CAM = Computer Aided Manufacturing
A computer program that provides detailed information for making a part. A CAM program typically takes the output of a CAD program and translates it for a specific machine tool. Layout is also a CAM program (when it creates an ORD file that specifies the tool path for making a part).
Corner Looping (See also: Corner passing)
Corner loops are additional cutting entities placed at sharp outside corners to allow the jet to continue cutting without having to slow down for the corner.
Examples of corner loops showing speed profiles (blue = slow, red = faster, white = fastest)
Advantages:
- Provides sharper and faster corners than a standard corner.
- Not nearly as fast as corner passing, because of the extra distance
traveled.
- Takes more space than corner passing, limiting the number of places
where it can be used.
- Requires special programming, making it difficult to pick the best
loop radius and speed.
- Speed advantage is negligible on many parts.
Corner Passing
Corner Passing refers to the technique automatically used by OMAX software of cutting past one side of an outside corner and then moving back to continue machining. Corner passing lets thick parts be cut faster and to a higher tolerance. Corner passing eliminates the need to slow down the jet to let the jet lag catch up, resulting in both an increase in speed, and an increase in precision. The increase in precision is a result of not having to slow down so much, which would otherwise cause the kerf width to grow slightly.
An example of corner passing in a tool path
Corner passing is much faster and requires less space than corner loops, which is the older "alternate" method. Corner loops are traditionally used to speed up corner cutting on thick parts, but they waste time cutting the scrap material, and require a lot of room.
Corner passing automatically used by Make, so you don't need to do anything special to get the advantage of corner passing. The corner passing geometry, as well as jet kickback, is optimized for speed and collision avoidance so that the part does not get marked by a long corner pass.
Corner passing is most effective on parts where the cutting quality is low and the thickness is high. This is because these are the kind of parts that have the most jet lag. For higher cutting qualities such as 4, 5, and "minimum taper," corner passing may or may not offer a speed advantage.
Corner passing can be disabled for the case where the "scrap" and the part will be kept, such as when doing artistic inlay work. This is done through the Optimizations dialog.
Thin parts:
If the material you are using is thin, then corner passing might not be used at all. This is because with thin parts there is minimal jet lag, and corner passing is not worth doing.
Sharp corners:
Corner passing will not occur on some exceptionally sharp and pointy corners. This is because the extended distance becomes so great that corner passing becomes slower than simply going around the corner.
Crankshaft Pump
Crankshaft pumps generate pressure using plungers that are driven by a crankshaft. A triplex pump is a type of crankshaft pump. Crankshaft pumps are also known as "direct drive" pumps.
Typical 20/30 horsepower crankshaft driven triplex pump. You can see
3 high pressure cylinders driven by a single crankshaft.
D
DWG File
A DWG file is a drawing file from AutoCAD. This is an unpublished format that is proprietary to AutoDesk, Inc. Layout can read most DWG files by using the "Import from other CAD" function in the File menu.
DXF File
DXF (Drawing eXchange Format) is a standard file format used to exchange drawings between CAD (Computer Aided Drawing) programs.
Most CAD and drawing programs support DXF Files, including AutoCAD, CorelDRAW, MasterCam and SmartCam.
Layout stores all drawing files as standard DXF files. You can also use DXF files from other programs.
Dynamic pierce
During a "dynamic pierce," the nozzle and abrasive are turned on, and the nozzle begins to slowly move. As the nozzle moves, the material is pierced. Contrast this with a wiggle pierce.
Make defaults to using a sophisticated dynamic pierce model that greatly speeds up piercing. Make will choose the best pierce to use with each piece you machine.
E
Etch
Etch is a type of Quality. Both abrasive and water are used with Etch, but the abrasive jet nozzle moves at a specified constant speed across the material, marking the surface without piercing the material. Etch is intended to be used to etch part numbers or designs on hard materials, such as steel.
Picture of part that has been Etched
Set the feed rate of Etch when making a part. OMAX will detect any Etch entities in a drawing, and ask for the feed rate for etching. The slower the abrasive jet nozzle, the deeper the cut made by Etch will be. If the abrasive jet nozzle moves too slowly, the material may be pierced.
The depth of the cut also depends on the material being used. Also, because OMAX must accelerate and decelerate at corners, etching will be deeper there.
For softer materials, such as aluminum and copper, Scribe may be better at marking the surface.
Etch does not offset the tool path. The abrasive jet nozzle will move over the center of any entity with a Quality of Etch.
Etch vs. Scribe and Water Only:
- Etch uses abrasive as well as water.
- Scribe and Water Only use only water, with no abrasive.
F
Firmware
"Firmware" refers to software that is stored on a memory chip in a device, as opposed to software on the computer, which is read into memory and then run. For example, your VCR has firmware that lets you set it up to record programs. Note that firmware is not lost when the device is unplugged.
Firmware can be permanent and unchangeable (such as the software that runs a digital watch) or it can be updated (such as a plug-in memory chip used to store pictures in a digital camera).
In the context of OMAX, newer OMAX machines use a USB Controller Card that acts as a buffer between the computer and the OMAX. The controller card contains firmware that is automatically updated when you install new versions of Layout and Make.
Fixturing
"Fixturing" is the process of firmly securing a piece of material so that it does not move during machining. Fixturing is a specialized term used in the machining tool industry (it is also used in the robotics industry).
Proper fixturing is important for maximum accuracy with the OMAX. The force of the abrasive jet stream can lift heavy pieces of metal if they are not adequately fixtured.
This plate of material is fixtured with clamps in the X & Y directions, and with a weight
Frosting
Frosting is the effect of stray particles abrading the surface of the material being cut. It typically occurs right at the edge the cut, or in a circular pattern around a pierce.
Frosting on aluminum
The frosting on this part is especially severe in this case because:
- The material is relatively soft
- A pierce was performed here, so the jet was deflecting sideways
- The material was about 2" thick, so it took a long time to pierce
- The photograph was deliberately taken under lighting conditions
that would emphasize the frosting.
G
Garnet
Garnet is the abrasive used by the OMAX system's abrasive jet.
Garnet is a hard, inert material that is a reddish color. When found in larger crystals, it is a semi-precious stone.
The OMAX system uses a ground garnet as the abrasive. Garnet is ideal for this purpose because of its hardness, and because it does not react with other materials (garnet is a silicate mineral--similar to sand). Because garnet is inert, it has little environmental impact.
Gradians
A unit of measure for a circle. There are 400 gradians in a complete circle, or 200 in a half-circle. Gradians are useful in some types of calculations.
Grid
The drawing grid in Layout is the same size as the standard OMAX® JetMachining® Center machining table. The grid is shown as a series of white squares. The spacing of the grid lines is controlled by Snap and Reference Grids in the "Config" command in Layout.
H
Hard water
"Hard" water is water with a large amount of dissolved minerals, typically calcium and magnesium. Because water is an excellent solvent, it dissolves small amounts of minerals as it percolates through rocks and soil. As the mineral content increases, so does the "hardness" of the water. Hard water will tend to leave behind mineral deposits, which require frequent cleaning or replacement of pipes.
Generally, the smaller the pipe diameter, the more hard water will be a problem. Because the OMAX uses some very small diameter orifices and pipes, make sure the water supply is as "soft" and free of minerals as possible. Hard water will also increase wear on components.
OMAX can provide you with water softeners if you have hard water. You can also contact OMAX to have your water hardness tested.
Heads-up Traverse
A "Heads-up" Traverse is very similar to a regular Traverse Line. The only difference is that before moving, the machining head is raised. By raising the machining head, it can be moved across fixtures without damaging the fixtures or the machining head. Heads-up Traverses are also useful when machining many small parts, which may tip up and catch the machining head.
The amount the head is raised is set in the "Motion Preferences" dialog. Heads-up traverse always brings the head back down on completion of the move.
Note:
A Heads-up Traverse will only work on OMAX machines with a motorized Z-axis. If the OMAX does not have a motorized Z-axis, the Heads-up Traverse will be treated the same as a regular Traverse.
I
Intelli-MAX®
Intelli-MAX is collection of key software technologies in the OMAX controller that allow for parts that are simultaneously much greater precision and much faster than all other abrasivejet control methods.
This means that you can:
- Program parts faster, making it practical to do short run, just-in-time,
or single piece production.
- Machine parts faster, allowing for higher profits and shorter cycle
time.
- Machine parts to higher precision--extending the capabilities beyond
"traditional waterjet" markets and reducing the need for secondary
operations.
See Also: Intelli-MAX® Facts
Intensifier pump
An older type of high pressure pump that uses hydraulics to make very high pressures. Contrast this with a crankshaft pump.
See Also: Comparing intensifier and crank drive pumps
J
Jet lag
As the machining head moves across the material that it is cutting, the spot where the jet exits the material will lag behind the spot where it entered the material. This lag is also called "jet lag."
Lag is why it is important to slow the machining head down when entering a corner. Slowing allows the tail to catch up, resulting in a square corner.
Jewel
The orifice from which water exits to form the cutting stream. Typically, jewels are made from sapphire, ruby, or diamond (thus, the name "jewel").
A "jewel" mounted in a steel insert
K
Kerf
Kerf is the width of the cut made by the abrasive jet. A typical kerf width is 0.020" to 0.060", depending on the nozzle and the amount of wear on the mixing tube. The kerf width must be measured to determine the tool offset.
The kerf is the width of the abrasivejet cut
KSI
KSI stands for thousands of pounds per square inch (Kilo-PSI).
L
Layout
Layout is the OMAX CAD program. Use Layout to build a drawing that can be machined using the OMAX JetMachining Center.
Layout uses a grid that is the same size as the OMAX table. Use the various Layout commands to draw a part.
Lead-in
A lead-in is a small section added to a drawing where the abrasive jet begins piercing the material before it begins making the part. Lead-ins can be easily added using the "Lead I/O" command in Layout.
Lead-ins are typically 0.15" long or longer and should be assigned a Quality of Lead I/O.
With each rapid traverse, there should be a lead-in to allow the OMAX to pierce the material again.
Lead IO
A Quality used for lead-ins and lead-outs.
Lead IO Quality is used for lead-ins and lead-outs on a part. If the "Lead I/O" command is used, the lead-in/outs will be automatically assigned a Quality of Lead IO. All leads should use a Quality of Lead IO.
The Lead IO Quality distinguishes the lead in/out from the geometry of the part. This is used by functions such as the nesting software and dynamic pierce.
Lead-ins created with Lead IO Quality are adjusted to the optimum length for piercing in Make. Where there is a traverse, then a Quality of Lead IO, then another traverse, Make will not offset the lead. This makes small hole drilling easier.
Lead-out
A lead-out is a small section added to the drawing where the abrasive jet continues to pierce the material after the part is finished. The lead-out helps prevent any irregularities that resulting when the abrasive jet is turned off. Lead-outs can be easily added using the "Lead I/O" command in Layout.
Lead-outs are typically about 0.15" long and should be assigned a Quality of Lead I/O.
M
Machineability Index
A property of a material that corresponds directly with the speed at which the abrasive jet can cut through that material. The more difficult it is to cut through a material (that is, the harder the material), the lower the Machineability index.
Sample machineabilities for different materials
Mesh
The coarseness of abrasive used. For example, 80 mesh abrasive is typical of most abrasive jet applications, but 120 mesh, which is a finer abrasive, might be used for special applications. Larger abrasives (smaller mesh numbers) cut faster, but produce rougher surfaces.
The higher the mesh number, the finer the abrasive. An 80 mesh abrasive will be about 177 microns in size, while 120 mesh will be about 125 microns.
MiniJet Nozzle (See Also: MiniJet Nozzle)
The MiniJet Nozzle is a replacement nozzle designed to produce small parts, or parts with intricate details. The MiniJet Nozzle fits on any standard OMAX machine.
The MiniJet Nozzle is also ideal for applications where extra precision is required, because it has a narrower kerf width, and tends to reduce taper.
The OMAX MiniJet Nozzle is ideally suited for use with the Minimum Taper Quality or with the Tilt-A-Jet® . This nozzle provides the highest precision, since it naturally produces less taper than other nozzles. Because of this, it often cuts at about the same speed as larger nozzles when using the Minimum Taper Quality. This results in very significant cost savings due to less abrasive used, less water used, less electricity used, and less wear on the pump.
When using the MiniJet Nozzle (or whenever cutting small parts that might fall through the slats), consider cutting on top of waterjet brick.
The OMAX MiniJet Nozzle in action
A sample part created with the OMAX MiniJet
Minimum Taper
The Minimum Taper Quality will adjust the speed of the machining head so that it creates the minimum amount of taper (for metals) in the material you are using.
In most cases, Minimum Taper will slow down the cutting speed significantly--often to even slower than a Quality of 5. However, in some cases, where "reverse taper" would otherwise occur, the cutting speed will be faster.
Note:
A better way to achieve little or no taper is to purchase the Tilt-A-Jet option for your OMAX. This tilts the machining head and virtually eliminates taper with no loss of machining speed. If you regularly need minimum taper, you should investigate this option. The Minimum Taper Quality is intended for occasional use.
On thick parts, the speed is somewhere around that of a Quality of 4 or 5, and on thinner parts the speed is that of a Quality 5 or slower. In either case, the part will be of higher tolerance due to the near elimination of taper.
Note:
Minimum Taper will not necessarily completely eliminate taper due to the variances in nozzle performance and other factors that are outside the control of the cutting model. This is why it is called "minimum taper," and not "zero taper."
The cutting model for Minimum Taper was developed primarily for metals and works well for them. For non-metals, a Quality of Minimum Taper is not very accurate (you may not get the absolute minimum amount of taper). Also, for best results, use a nozzle in good condition, high-quality abrasive, and a minimum stand-off.
The OMAX MiniJet Nozzle is ideally suited for reducing taper. This nozzle provides the highest precision, since it naturally produces less taper than other nozzles. Because of this, it often cuts at about the same speed as larger nozzles when using the Minimum Taper Quality. This results in very significant cost savings due to less abrasive used, less water used, less electricity used, and less wear on the pump.
Using this Quality in most cases will impose a severe penalty in speed, especially on thinner parts (less than 0.25"). The amount of corner compensation used is about the same as for Quality of 5, but the cutting speed in other areas will be constrained by taper and not surface finish or separation speed. Minimum Taper can go as slow as what a Quality of ?50" might be.
Since in most cases Minimum Taper will machine much slower than the other qualities, surface finish will typically be superb. However, in some cases, it will machine faster than the other cutting qualities, and the surface finish will be slightly rougher, though never rougher than a "2." Minimum Taper is constrained by the software to slower than a Quality of 2 to prevent rough surface finish.
Tip:
Look at the "ideal linear speed" for "Quality of Minimum Taper" in the statistics window, and compare it with the speeds for the other Qualities. This will provide a useful reference point for knowing how slow it is really going.
Mixing Tube
The mixing tube is where the abrasive mixes with the high-pressure water.
The mixing tube should be replaced when tolerances drop below acceptable levels. For maximum accuracy, replace the mixing tube more frequently. The size of the kerf and cutting performance are the best indicators of mixing tube wear.
Muff
A protector that muffles the noise of the nozzle as well as lessens the effect of splash back. When practical, always use a muff on the abrasive jet nozzle.
Splash from the abrasive jet is eliminated with the muff
N
Nesting software
Nesting software arranges parts to get the maximum number of parts from a piece of material. Although nesting software cannot do as well as a human can, it is considerably faster. It is also complicated and tends to do better with parts that have simple shapes, rather than complex parts.
Many parts are nested on this sample plate to get the most from the material
O
Off-line Programming
Off-line Programming is the process of drawing parts and making tool paths on a computer that is not connected to an OMAX. This is the preferred method for programming an OMAX because it does not tie up the machine with tasks that you can do on a much less expensive computer.
When you are finished drawing the part, you can preview how it will be made by using Make on the same (off-line) computer. Only when you are ready to actually make the part, do you need to use the computer connected to the OMAX.
You can still draw parts "on-line" while the OMAX is making a part, because Windows supports multi-tasking. You will not, however, be able to run another copy of Make, so you will not be able to preview the part while another part is being made.
Offset
The amount by which the abrasive jet nozzle is moved to one side of the tool path. An offset is needed because the cutting jet is not infinitely thin, but has a finite width. By offsetting the nozzle to one side, precision can be maintained. The offset is one-half the kerf.
When the tool path is offset, the edge of the cut lines up with the edge of the part
OMX file
The OMX file format is an updated version of the ORD file format. The OMX format supports movement in the Z-axis (up and down), which can be programmed with the 3-D Path Editor for OMAX machines with a programmable Z-axis, as well as parametric shapes and other advanced features.
The OMX file format is also designed to be extensible, and to easily accommodate new features that will be added.
Operating System
An Operating System (OS) is the software that controls the most basic functions of the computer. A computer must have an operating system to function.
When a computer is first turned on, the first thing it does is load the operating system. After the operating system is loaded, the computer is ready to be used. Windows 98 is an example of a popular operating system. MS-DOS is another. Other common operating systems are:
- Windows Millennium
- Windows 2000
- Windows XP
- Windows NT
- Windows CE (for tiny computers like palmtops)
- Palm OS (for tiny computers)
- Windows 3.1
- LINUX
- UNIX
- Mac OS
- Be-OS
- Next
- QNX
OMAX now uses software that runs under the Windows 2000 family of operating systems, which includes Windows XP. These use the "NT code-base" (meaning they are based on the program used for Windows NT), which provides sufficient stability for the critical timing required to control a precision abrasivejet machining tool.
For more information on how Windows 2000 compares to other versions of Windows, see this Microsoft article.
ORD Files
An ORD (OMAX Routed Data) file contains your tool path (the order in which the entities in your drawing will be made).
Orifice
The small opening in the sapphire jewel that allows high-pressure water to enter the mixing tube.
Orthogonal
At right angles.
Two orthogonal lines
P
Pan Moving the display without making it larger or smaller. When "panning right," for example, the display moves to the right without changing the zoom.
Parallel
Lines that are parallel are always the same distance apart and never meet. Similarly, planes that are parallel are always the same distance apart and never meet.
A rectangle is composed of two pairs of parallel lines.
The "Offset" command can be used to create sets of parallel lines. Or, use the "Copy" command to copy an existing line and create a set of parallel lines.
These lines are parallel
Perpendicular
A line that is at a 90? angle to another line or circle.
Two perpendicular lines
Pixel (See Also: Raster graphics)
The smallest possible dot that can be turned on and off on the screen.
Pixel is short for "Picture Element." The screen resolution is typically given in pixels. For example, a screen resolution of 640 by 480 means that there are 640 pixels across and 480 pixels down.
Pixel is usually used to refer to resolution on computer screens (printer resolution is usually given in "dots per inch" which can also be expressed as "pixels per inch").
Post Processor
A Post Processor is a special bit of code that a CAD / CAM system executes in order to generate code that is specific to a particular brand of machine tool. For example, MasterCAM provides an OMAX post processor so that OMAX Compatible ORD files can be generated directly from within MasterCAM without using Layout.
OMAX actively encourages and supports third party software vendors who write post processors for the OMAX. Because of this, many popular third party software vendors already have post processors for a variety of applications that will write OMAX ORD files directly. For more information on this, including a vendor list, or information on post processor development for your favorite software package, contact softwareengineering@omax.com. Many third party CAD / CAM, and Nesting software packages support the OMAX directly by use of post processors.
Q
Quality Numbers Qualities 1 through 5 use abrasive and water to pierce the material. A Quality of 1 will always pierce all the way through the material. Because the abrasive jet head is moving quickly, however, the surface finish obtained with a Quality of 1 is rougher than that obtained with a Quality of 5 (which is a smooth finish).
Notice also that as the Quality numbers get lower, the surface finish gets rougher.
Each leg of this part was made at a different Quality
In most cases, setting the Quality is a compromise between getting the best surface finish in the least amount of time. When first using the OMAX on a particular material, a Quality of 3 is a good Quality to choose. If the finish is too rough, increase the Quality. If the finish is acceptable, you might want to lower the Quality to see if you can make the part in less time.
Sometimes, you will not cut all the way through when using Quality of 1. This is normal because Quality of 1 means "Just barely cut all the way through." If the nozzle is not in tip-top shape, you will have a slight attachment between your part and the scrap. This may occur in spots here and there around the edge of the part.
For this reason, Quality of 1 is reserved as a "Special Case" quality used for fine-tuning, and for advanced users. Use Quality of 2 for most fast machining.
Likewise, Quality of 5 is overkill for most machining practices, and should be reserved for special cases by the advanced user.
Note:
Surface Quality does not correspond to tolerance. A Quality of 3 is the recommended Quality for most applications.
Quality of 1:
A Quality of 1 gives a very low tolerance and rough finish. With a poor performing or old nozzle, it is likely that the part will cut all the way through, and may need to be "banged out with a hammer." Because of this, this Quality is reserved only for very crude "roughing out" work, where speed is of highest importance.
Beginning users should not use this Quality at all, because of the potential of being frustrated by "skipped cuts" where the cutting did not make it all the way through, or corners that do not look as good as desired.
The original definition of Quality of 1 was to cut at such a rate that the material would just barely separate (Material separation speed). OMAX has slowed this quality down slightly to help provide some tolerance for worn nozzles or other factors that might otherwise cause material separation problems.
Quality of 2:
A Quality of 2 is a general purpose "rough out" quality that improves upon Quality of 1 to give slightly better surface finish, and slightly more corner compensation. This is a good quality to use for rough-out type work where tolerance is not very important, speed is important, and you do not wish to have any of the associated problems of Quality of 1.
For straight line cutting, a Quality of 2 is the speed it would take to separate a material that is twice as thick as the material currently being machined. (Or roughly twice as slow as a separation cut.) Note that this is a slightly different meaning than "surface finish," in that the surface finish is not guaranteed. What is guaranteed is that the speed of the cut is twice as slow as a separation cut.
The surface finish will be the same as the top half of a separation speed cut.
Quality of 3:
Quality of 3 is a general purpose "machining" quality. Corner compensation is enabled, to insure that corners come out reasonably sharp without wasting too much time. Surface finish is also quite good. This is by far the most commonly used cutting Quality for most parts, as it provides an excellent balance between speed, surface finish, corner compensation and precision.
For straight line cutting, a Quality of 3 is the speed it would take to separate a material that is three times as thick as the material currently being machined.
The surface finish will be the same as the top one-third of a separation speed cut.
Quality of 4:
A Quality of 4 offers better surface finish and corner compensation than a Quality of 3, at a slight penalty in speed. In most cases, it also provides for slightly less taper in the part. This makes it a good cutting quality to use when you need slightly better results than Quality of 3, but there is some speed penalty.
For straight line cutting, Quality of 4 is the speed it would take to separate a material that is four times as thick as the material currently being machined.
The surface finish will be the same as the top one-fourth of a separation speed cut.
Quality of 5:
Quality of 5 offers yet another level of better surface finish, corner compensation, and precision, but at a fairly severe speed penalty compared with Quality of 3. Because it is so slow, you should use it sparingly, and only where needed.
For straight line cutting, Quality of 5 is the speed it would take to separate a material that is five times as thick as the material currently being machined.
The surface finish will be the same as the top one-fifth of a separation speed cut.
R
Ra (See also: Surface Roughness)
Ra (Average Roughness) is a measurement of surface roughness. Ra is calculated by taking the average of the deviations from the center line of the surface. Ra is also known as Arithmetic Average (AA), Center Line Average (CLA), Arithmetical Mean Deviation of the Profile.
Ra is one of the more effective measures of surface roughness and has been commonly adopted in engineering practice, as it is as good descriptor of variations in height of the surface. Ra is frequently used in the automotive industry to specify a surface finish for metal.
Radians
The angle at the center of a circle that intercepts an arc equal in length to the radius. From these definitions, it follows that 1 revolution = 4 right angles = 360? = 2π radians.
RAM
RAM (Random Access Memory) is the main type of "memory" that a computer uses. It consists of high-speed chips that provide storage for programs that the computer is running. When the computer is turned off, all the contents of RAM disappears, so it is used primarily as "working" memory by the computer.
When RAM begins to run low, Windows will start using more virtual memory.
RAM chips are usually mounted in sets of eight on circuit boards
Raster graphics
Graphics that are composed of individual dots. These are sometimes known as "bitmap graphics."
A greatly magnified raster graphic image
The opposite of raster graphics are vector graphics.
Examples of some common graphic file formats are:
| File Ext. | Type | Comments |
| AI | Vector | Adobe Illustrator drawing |
| BMP | Raster | Windows bitmap |
| CDR | Vector | CorelDRAW drawing (can contain bitmaps) |
| EPS | Vector | Encapsulated Post Script. Vector, but may have a raster header |
| GIF | Raster | Often used on web pages |
| IMG | Raster | |
| JPG | Raster | JPEG image?typically used for photographs |
| PCT | Raster | (Pict) Apple Macintosh format |
| PCX | Raster | Old, but widely supported |
| Vector | Primarily used for documents, but can be used for drawings; typically stores drawings as bitmaps | |
| PLT | Vector | HP Plotter file |
| TIFF | Raster | Used for photos & drawings; many varieties |
| VSD | Vector | Visio drawing |
| WMF | Raster | Windows Meta File |
Raster files can be converted to vector files using a third party utility. Some of raster formats (JPG and BMP) can be loaded into Layout and traced using the "Image Tracing" function.
Reticle
A grid or pattern that appears in an eyepiece to aid in positioning. The OMAX video locator uses a reticle to precisely position the machining head.
Reverse Post Processor
A reverse post processor is a feature in some CAD / CAM (or other) software that translates a tool path back into editable geometry. In other words, it is the opposite of creating the tool path (which is often created with a post processor).
For example, when loading an ORD file into Layout, you are "reverse posting" it. Or if you have a "G-Code" file, and you want to edit its geometry in your CAD program, you would use a reverse post processor to translate it back into the CAD.
Layout has a built in ORD file reverse post processor. To use it, simply choose the file type of "ORD" in the "Open" dialog, and load an ORD file. You can then re-save it as a DXF file.
Layout can also reverse post some types of G-Code files. In this case, the translation is not as reliable, however, because of the wide variety of G-Code files. Still, some customers may find this feature useful for translating tool paths from other machines into OMAX files (use "Import from other CAD" to access this feature) If the reverse post in Layout does not suit your needs, then contact softwareengineering@omax.com for information on getting a custom reverse-post written.
Note:
Usually when using a reverse post processor, some information is lost. For example, if you load an ORD file into Layout, you will lose the sequence of the tool path (which entity is made first, which second, and so forth).
Reverse Taper
An upside-down V-shaped kerf (or a kerf with a "-" taper error). This taper is caused because the abrasivejet stream tends to spread out as it travels. Typically, reverse taper can be reduced or eliminated by simply cutting a little faster (assigning a lower Quality number).
Reverse taper
S
Scanner
A scanner is a device for making a picture of a piece of paper and transferring it to a computer. Most scanners work similar to a photocopying machine?a bar with a bright light and sensitive photoreceptors is moved across the imaging area. The resulting image is sent to a computer, where it is stored as a bitmap image.
Some scanners are also capable of scanning three-dimensional objects.
Scanning software
Scanning software controls the operation of a scanner. If the scanner is "TWAIN compliant" then many Windows programs (such as Word for Windows) can control the scanner. Otherwise, the scanner is controlled by special software from the manufacturer.
Scientific notation
cientific notation is used to express large numbers in a more understandable form. Scientific notation uses powers of ten (that is, 10 squared = 100, 10 cubed = 1000, and so forth).
There are various methods to express scientific notation. Each of the following represents the same number (Avogadro's Number, the number of molecules in a mole).
Without scientific notation:
602,200,000,000,000,000,000,000
With scientific notation:
6.022 x E23
6.022 * 10^23
6.022 x 1023
The base number (the first number) is always expressed as a value between 1 and 10. The exponent part shows what power of ten the base number is multiplied by. In the above example, "6.022" is multiplied by ten raised to the 23rd power (100,000,000,000,000,000,000,000).
Screen resolution
The total number of pixels that are displayed on the computer screen at once.
Typical screen resolutions are (given as width first, then height):
640 by 480 (also called VGA)
800 by 600 (sometimes called Super-VGA)
1024 by 768
1280 by 960
Note:
OMAX Layout and Make are designed to run at a screen resolution of 1024 x 768 or higher, for best viewing.
Change the screen resolution in Windows 95/98/Me from the Control Panel by double-clicking on "Display." The Display Properties dialog can also be accessed by right-clicking on the desktop.
Scribe
Scribe is a type of Quality. OMAX does not use any abrasive for entities with a Quality of Scribe. Scribe is intended to be used to inscribe part numbers or designs on soft material.
The feed rate of the abrasive nozzle for scribe is set when you Make your part. OMAX detects any scribe entities in your tool path. Enter the feed rate at which to scribe for each. The slower the abrasive jet nozzle, the deeper the cut made by Scribe will be.
The depth of the cut also depends on the material. Also, because OMAX must accelerate and decelerate at corners, the scribe will be deeper there.
Scribe is generally not effective with harder materials, such as steel. For these materials, Etch may be more appropriate.
Scribe is useful for marking aluminum, copper, and other soft materials.
Scribe is also useful to replace rapid traverse moves when machining hard materials. This can reduce the number of on/off cycles on the high-pressure pump resulting in increased speed to make the part, and reduced wear and tear on the pump. In this case, enter the fastest speed for scribe entities. This is not necessary for intensifier pumps or pumps equipped with a dual on/off valve.
Scribe vs. Etch:
- Scribe uses only water.
- Etch uses abrasive as well as water.
- Both Scribe and Water Only use only water,
with no abrasive.
- With Scribe, the abrasive jet nozzle is centered on the
tool path.
With Water Only Quality, the tool path is offset, so that the dimensions of the finished piece exactly match the drawing. Water Only is intended to be used for making parts from soft materials, such as foam and sponge.
- Scribe can also be used for machining providing a quick way to
cut soft materials when offsetting the tool path is not important.
For example, when making a muff for the OMAX, either
Scribe or Water Only may be used.
Separation Speed
The Separation Speed is the cutting speed at which the abrasivejet is able to separate the material--that is, the speed at which the abrasivejet just barely cuts all the way through.
A Quality of 1 cut is close to, but slightly slower than the separation speed. The reason it is slower than the separation speed is to provide some margin for error, given a worn nozzle, or imperfect abrasive or other real-world factors.
Servomotor
A Servomotor ("servo") is a motor that can be directed to move to a particular position using an electrical signal. For example, if a servomotor is connected to an armature, the position of the arm can be controlled by the signal sent to the servomotor. Servomotors allow for the precise positioning of components.
A servomotor is typically used in a servomechanism, which includes a feedback mechanism, so that the position can be adjusted to changing conditions.
The OMAX uses servomotors to precisely position the machining head.
Slats
Stainless steel plates which support the material being machined in the OMAX tank.
A part resting on slats
Slugs
Slugs are any scrap parts that you remove. One advantage of abrasivejet machining is that the slugs can be valuable for recycling, or for being made into another part on another machine. This is especially true for expensive materials such as titanium. However, slugs can also pose a collision threat when machining, so care must be taken when planning your tool paths to avoid them.
Snap
When snap is turned on (with the "Enable Snap Grid"> command), any time you click in your drawing, you will snap to the closest point on the grid. The spacing of the snap grid is controlled by Snap and Reference Grids in the "Config" command.
Snap Grid
he Snap Grid is used to make drawing parts easier. When this is turned on, lines and arcs will snap to the closest point on the snap grid. The Snap Grid is turned on with the "Enable Snap Grid" command.
Soft Limits
Use soft limits to define the allowed range of motion of the machine. Make will not move the nozzle outside of the rectangle defined by the soft limits. To set the soft limits, see the "Soft Limits" menu in Make .
Spline curve
A Spline Curve is a smooth curve that passes through two or more points and is generated with a mathematical formula. The two most common types of spline curves are Bezier curves and b-spline curves (sometimes called NURBS for Non-Uniform Rational B-Spline).
Originally, splines were drafted by using flexible strips that were guided by points on a piece of paper. The points are called "control points" and define the shape of the curve. A spline may be "interpolating," which means that it passes through each control point, or "approximating," where the curve is not required to pass through each control point.
Square
Method of fixturing where typically a metal plate is bolted to the table, and a L shape is cut from it, leaving a "square," in which the corner point is exactly known.
A square fixture
Stand-off
The stand-off is the distance between the end of the abrasive nozzle and the material. A small amount of stand-off is necessary to allow the abrasive jet to work properly. Too much stand-off, however, can increase kerf and result in poor quality machining. The recommended stand-off is usually about 0.04".
The stand-off can be set manually by raising and lowering the Z-axis and using a precision feeler gauge. If you have a motorized Z-axis, you can set the stand-off automatically.
Stationary Pierce
A method of piercing the material where the jet turns on, then stays stationary until the material is pierced. This is typically a very slow method of piercing, but is fine for thin materials that pierce quickly no matter what. It also allows you to pierce the material in the minimal amount of space, and is the only option for piercing very small holes.
The hole diameter drilled using a stationary pierce will be significantly larger than the diameter of the mixing tube, especially in thicker materials. As drilling proceeds, the water and abrasive need to escape out backwards to the sides of the jet; thereby increasing the diameter of the hole.
Make does not directly support stationary pierces because dynamic pierces (where the nozzle moves very slowly) will serve the same purpose in nearly all cases. However, if stationary piercing must be used for a specialty case, create a lead-in with a Quality of Etch, then set the "Additional Delay Before Moving" on the "Event and Relay Timing" dialog to be whatever is needed to pierce the material. This technique is also useful in conjunction with the "Recompile with Pierces Only" feature.
Stationary Pierce is sometimes called dwell pierce.
Step
A "step" is a single machine step--the smallest possible distance the machining head can be moved. The actual distance moved will vary depending on the motor setup (steps per revolution), and the mechanics of the machine such as pulley and ball-screw ratios, but the distance is on the order of 0.0005".
Stepper Motor
A Stepper Motor is a motor that can be precisely controlled by an external motor controller. It is used in the same type of applications that require servomotors. Stepper motors can spin quite rapidly, and can stop precisely, making them ideal for applications that require precise positioning.
Surface Roughness (See also: Ra)
Surface roughness is an indication of the finest (shortest wavelength) irregularities of a surface. Roughness generally results from a particular production process or material condition. For abrasive waterjet cutting, the roughness profile created by individual abrasive particles is compounded with the waviness generated by the dynamics of the jet (so called "striation marks"). Here surface roughness only applies to cut surfaces with Quality 3 or above.
T
Table
The area of the machine that contains the slats.
Tabs
Small pieces of material that hold parts together preventing them from sliding into the collection tank and from being moved by the abrasive jet.
Parts held together with tabs
Tangent
There are two distinct definitions for "tangent," one from geometry, and one from trigonometry.
- Geometry:
A line that touches a circle at one (and only one) point. This means the line cannot pass into the interior of the circle (or it would touch the circle twice). This definition of "tangent" is used by the Tangent snap in Layout.
Both green lines are tangent to the circle
- Trigonometry:
The tangent of an angle is the ratio of the leg opposite divided by the leg adjacent (for a right triangle). This definition of "tangent" is used for math functions in Layout.
The tangent is the ratio of Y to X
Taper (See Also: Tilt-A-Jet)
Taper is the difference in the width of the cut from top to bottom. A certain amount of taper is inherent in all abrasive jets.
V-shaped
V-shaped taper is where the top of the cut is wider than the bottom. This is a result of the jet spending enough time over an area to erode the top of the material more than the bottom. Also, "splashback" as the jet is bounced back from the material will tend to erode the sides.
V-shaped taper
Reverse Taper
Reverse taper is where the top is narrower than the bottom. This tends to happen in soft materials where the material is rapidly eroded or when cutting very slowly. Because the jet stream expands the farther away from the nozzle it gets, it removes more material from the bottom than from the top.
Reverse taper
Barrel Taper
Barrel taper is where the middle is wider than the top or the bottom. Barrel taper tends to occur in very thick materials.
Barrel taper
Rhombus taper
You may also encounter "rhombus" taper, which can be caused by a Z-axis that is not square to the table.
Rhombus taper
The main causes of taper are:
- Distance of nozzle from material. The closer the nozzle is to the
material, the less the taper.
- Type of material.
- Speed of cut. Machine too fast and taper occurs in one direction;
machine too slowly and taper occurs in the other direction.
- Size and quality of jet exiting the nozzle.
- Size of abrasive used.
- Thickness of material.
Taper Angle (See Also: Taper Angle Per Side
The Taper Angle is the included angle of the kerf. A positive taper angle indicates a V-shaped kerf.
Taper Angle Per Side
The Taper Angle Per Side is the taper angle divided by two.
Taper Error (See Also: Taper Error Per Side)
Taper Error is the top kerf width minus bottom kerf width. A positive taper error indicates a V-shaped kerf.
Taper Error Per Side
The Taper Error Per Side is the taper error divided by two.
Tilt-A-Jet®
Tilt-A-Jet (TAJ) represents the latest OMAX innovation in the continuing search for more accurate abrasivejet machining. Tilt-A-Jet lets the OMAX JetMachining Center achieve virtually zero taper with most materials. As the machining nozzle moves along the tool path, Make calculates the amount of taper, and then tilts the machining head to exactly offset the taper from the abrasivejet.
Taper doesn't disappear, it just gets moved to the scrap part of the material, leaving your part with exactly square edges.
Tilt-A-Jet adjusts the nozzle so that all the taper is in the scrap
Tilt-A-Jet can be retrofitted to any OMAX machine, bringing precise machining to all JetMachining System owners. Tilt-A-Jet has no wear parts, requires no maintenance, and consumes no supplies. There is a small additional electrical draw for the servo motors, but this is negligible.
The Tilt-A-Jet machining head
How it works
The easiest way to understand how the Tilt-A-Jet works is to consider a simpler case: a nozzle with only two pivots. The following illustration shows how, by using two linkages on either side, the tip of the nozzle can be tilted to different angles. The Tilt-A-Jet uses the same concept extended to three pivots, allowing the nozzle head to tilt in all three dimensions.
Two-dimensional simplified version of nozzle tip pivot, showing two positions
Although this seems simple, the advantage to this solution is that it does not move the nozzle up or down by a large amount. You can easily imagine tilting the nozzle, but with most approaches, the nozzle moves up or down by a lot. This, of course, affects the taper and increases the risk of the nozzle running into the material.
The nozzle must also move in the X/Y plane to compensate for the entry point into the material. With the Tilt-A-Jet, the amount of X, Y, and Z motion required to compensate for the tilt is minimized to small distances, allowing for rapid tilting speeds and accelerations. Some X,Y and Z motion is still required, and Make handles all of that for you automatically.
This is why when you use "Preview to Screen" you may see the XY motion drift away from the path. The nozzle is following the correct path, but the XY motion is moving slightly to compensate.
All the adjustments to the angle of the nozzle are made automatically by the Make software.
Tolerance (See also: Taper)
Tolerance is how close the finished part measures to the original drawing.
Tool Offset
The amount the tool is shifted away from the part to be cut. Tool Offset = 1/2 of the kerf width of the cutting nozzle. This compensates for the stream of abrasive water not being infinitely thin.
Tool Path
The path that the tool will follow when making a part. The tool path includes traverse information as well as cutting information.
The tool path generated by Layout is saved as an ORD file (not as a DXF file). This ORD file can then be loaded into Make and used to create the part on an OMAX machine.
Tool Path Font (See Also: True Type Font
A font designed for use with the OMAX. A number of tool path fonts are provided with Layout, including ones optimized for Etch and Scribe machining.
Traverse Line (See Also: Heads-up Traverse)
A traverse line (or "rapid traverse" line) indicates where the OMAX abrasive jet head moves with both the water and abrasive turned off. Traverse lines are used to position the abrasive jet head before beginning the next section of the part.
Traverse lines are always green in a drawing. All entities added to the drawing are initially traverse lines. A Quality must be assigned to the entities to have OMAX pierce the material.
Traverse lines are needed because the tool path for a part must be continuous from beginning to end. OMAX starts at the beginning of the tool path and follows a continuous line through to the end of the tool path. The "Generate Tool Path" command is used to define the tool path.
OMAX will wait a moment or two after shutting off the abrasive and water before moving the abrasive jet head on a traverse. This is to prevent marring the surface of the material. The delay time is controlled in Make.
In this drawing, the green traverse lines are used to position the abrasive jet head for each segment
Triplex pump
A triplex pump uses 3 plungers driven by a crankshaft to make pressure. A triplex pump is a type of crankshaft pump.
True Type Font
True Type fonts work on many different printers and types of computers. These fonts don't require a particular type of printer (such as PostScript or PCL fonts do).
Most fonts in Windows are True Type fonts, although non-True Type fonts can be installed. To see which True Type fonts your computer has, and to install additional fonts, go to the Windows Control Panel and select "Fonts." The True Type fonts are identified by a page icon with two T's. Fonts with red A's are not True Type fonts and cannot be used with Layout.
By default, Windows installs four True Type fonts:
- Arial
- Courier New
- Times New Roman
- Symbol (Symbol)
U
USB (See Also: USB Hub)
USB (Universal Serial Bus) is a relatively new hardware standard that allows the easy connection (and disconnection) of devices from a computer. In the past, serial devices were connected to a plug on the back of a computer. This was awkward, and typically only two (up to a maximum of four) serial devices could be plugged in.
USB allows up to 128 devices to be connected, and USB "hubs" can be conveniently placed on your desk. In many cases, when connecting a USB device, Windows automatically recognizes the device and activates the appropriate drivers. USB devices are also "hot swappable," meaning that the computer does not need to be turned off before connecting or disconnecting them (although in some cases, Windows will complain if you do this).
Macintosh computers also offer full USB support, and USB devices work with either Windows or Macintosh computers (although you may need Macintosh specific drivers for the device you want to use).
Newer OMAX machines use a USB "buffer" card that temporarily stores commands to control the machining head. This helps ensure a constant stream of commands to the OMAX.
USB Hub
A USB Hub turns one USB connection into several connections. The number of connections provided by the hub typically ranges from four to eight. Since most computers provide only two or four USB connections, hubs are used to support multiple USB devices. You can connect up to 128 USB devices to one computer.
In general, a "hub" provides a number of connections. A network hub, for example, provides additional connections to the network.
The OMAX optically isolated USB hub
Note that OMAX has an optically isolated USB hub available, which is ideal for running USB peripherals in an industrial environment because it optically isolates the computer. This protects the computer and the USB devices from power surges, spikes, and ground loops that can occur in an industrial environment.
V
Vector graphics
Graphics that are composed of lines, or "vectors." Vector graphics can be shrunk with no loss in resolution, and can be magnified with no "blockiness" of the image.
The images drawn in Layout are vector graphics (no matter how far you zoom in on them, the lines remain the same size).
The opposite of vector graphics is raster graphics.
Examples of some common graphic file formats are:
| File Ext. | Type | Comments |
| AI | Vector | Adobe Illustrator drawing |
| BMP | Raster | Windows bitmap |
| CDR | Vector | CorelDRAW drawing (can contain bitmaps) |
| EPS | Vector | Encapsulated Post Script. Vector, but may have a raster header |
| GIF | Raster | Often used on web pages |
| IMG | Raster | |
| JPG | Raster | JPEG image?typically used for photographs |
| PCT | Raster | (Pict) Apple Macintosh format |
| PCX | Raster | Old, but widely supported |
| Vector | Primarily used for documents, but can be used for drawings; typically stores drawings as bitmaps | |
| PLT | Vector | HP Plotter file |
| TIFF | Raster | Used for photos & drawings; many varieties |
| VSD | Vector | Visio drawing |
| WMF | Raster | Windows Meta File |
Virtual Memory
When a computer gets low on RAM memory (because many programs are running, or a large part has been loaded in Layout or Make), Windows will automatically begin using "virtual memory" by employing the hard drive as additional memory.
Because hard drives used as memory are 1/1000th as fast as RAM, virtual memory slows down processing considerably, although it allows the programs to continue to operate. If programs are running more slowly, and there is a lot of hard disk activity, close down any programs not being actively used.
If this situation occurs consistently, purchase additional RAM for your computer.
W
Wash-out
Wash-out occurs as a result of jet lag. If you imagine that the jet tail is lagging behind the top, then imagine this as it goes around a curve. The tail is pushed to the outside by centrifugal force, causing the bottom of the cut to be wider on the outside.
Wash-out will be more noticeable in thicker materials because of the distance between the top and bottom of the jet.
Wash-out can be reduced by either using a higher cut quality, or using the Tilt-A-Jet accessory.
In this 1? metal, the effect of wash-out is exaggerated. The magenta line shows the ?ideal? path, had there been no wash-out at all.
WaterJet
A WaterJet is similar to the abrasive jet used by OMAX?, except no abrasive is added to the water.
A WaterJet forces high-pressure water through a small orifice to create a thin stream of water traveling at high speed. This stream of water is capable of slicing through soft materials, such as foam.
Although the OMAX is designed to be used as an abrasive jet, it can be used as a WaterJet by setting the Quality to Water Only.
When using Quality of "Water Only," the abrasive nozzle can still be used, but the cut will be inferior to that of a water-only nozzle. This is because:
- the orifice is a greater distance from the material to cut; and
- air is introduced into the nozzle from the abrasive jet feed line
which disturbs the jet.
Note:
If you plan to regularly do water-only machining, you should use a water-only nozzle. This nozzle will cut faster and cleaner than an abrasivejet nozzle used in water-only mode. The orifice in the water-only nozzle is located right over the cutting surface, and no extra air is introduced into the water stream.
Waterjet brick (See Also: Waterjet brick accessory)
This is a block of corrugated plastic which can be used in the place of slats to provide support for tiny parts. It is also useful in applications where it is undesirable for splash back from the slats to frost the material, such as when cutting glass.
A waterjet brick in place on an OMAX machine
Advantages of waterjet brick:
- Excellent for cutting small parts that would otherwise fall into
the tank, or require tabs to hold them in place.
- Soft surface means there is no slat splash back, and associated
marring of part.
- Soft surface may offer some benefit when cutting brittle material.
- Even when heavily worn, the waterjet brick can still work as a
catcher to catch small parts that fall into the tank (but beware that
as they fall they may be hit by the jet, and mar).
Dedicate a portion of your tank to a waterjet brick, and another portion of the tank for "traditional" slats, and have the best of both worlds by cutting over the appropriate surface for the application.
Water Only
Water Only is a type of Quality. OMAX does not use any abrasive for entities with a Quality of Water Only. Water Only is used for machining soft material that can be pierced using only a high-pressure water jet (for example, sponge or foam).
Unlike Scribe, with Water Only, the tool path is offset to allow for the width of the cut made by the waterjet. Scribe does not offset the tool path, but always goes down the center.
Note:
When you use Water Only for a part, you must still provide a lead-in and lead-out. This allows the tool path to move from the starting position to the offset position during the lead section. When the lead-in is connected to a Water Only Quality, no abrasive will be used for the lead-in.
For best results when Water Only cutting, use a water only nozzle, which will increase the quality of the cut compared to a standard abrasive nozzle. When using the quality of Water Only, the abrasive nozzle can still be used, but the cut will be inferior to that of a water-only nozzle. This because: a) the orifice is a greater distance from the material to cut; and b) air is introduced into the nozzle from the abrasive jet feed line which disturbs the jet.
There are several advantages to using the OMAX as a water jet (without abrasives), if the material to be cut is soft enough:
- The abrasive jet nozzle will last longer, as there is less wear
on the nozzle and mixing tube.
- Because no abrasive is used, the operating costs are lower.
- Because no abrasive is used, no spent abrasive will accumulate
in the OMAX tank.
- The mixing tube cannot get plugged or clogged with abrasive.
If you plan to regularly do water-only machining, you should use a water-only nozzle, available from OMAX. This nozzle will cut faster and cleaner than an abrasivejet nozzle used in water-only mode. The orifice in the water-only nozzle is located right over the cutting surface, and no extra air is introduced into the water stream.
Water Only vs. Etch:
- Water Only uses only water.
- Etch uses abrasive as well as water.
- Both Scribe and Water Only use only water,
with no abrasive.
- With Scribe, the abrasive jet nozzle is centered on the
tool path.
- With Water Only Quality, the tool path is offset, so that the dimnsions
of the finished piece exactly match the drawing. Water Only is intended
to be used for making parts from soft materials, such as foam and
sponge.
- Water Only uses the material specifications to calculate the machining
speed.
Water Only Nozzle
A Water Only nozzle is a replacement for the regular abrasive nozzle. A Water Only nozzle is specifically designed to run when using only water with no abrasive.
Weep hole
A small hole drilled into high pressure fittings which allows water to escape in a safe manner should a leak occur.
An older style OMAX abrasive jet nozzle. The yellow arrow points to weep hole.
Should a leak occur in one of the internal seals, water will escape from this hole. Because the hole is large in diameter, any escaping water will be at a lower pressure than if it were to escape through a tiny crack. All high pressure fittings and components have these kinds of holes.
Wiggle Pierce
(See Also: Dynamic pierce, Intelli-MAX).
Wiggle Piercing is a way to pierce thick materials when other methods won't work. By default, Make uses a highly optimized dynamic pierce when it needs to pierce material and begin machining. The dynamic pierce used by Make is faster than wiggle piercing and traditional types of dynamic pierces.
In certain situations, however, there may not be room to perform a fast dynamic pierce, so for faster piercing you can wiggle pierce. In a wiggle pierce, the abrasive jet head wiggles back and forth about 0.1" for a specified number of wiggles.
X
X Axis
The X-axis is the horizontal axis. On the OMAX table, it is the longer axis. Positive X-axis values move to the right. Negative X-axis values move to the left.
Y
Y Axis
The Y-axis is the vertical axis. Positive Y-axis values move upward (away from the front of the tank). Negative X-axis values move downward.
Z
Zip file
A Zip file is a file that contains one or more "compressed" files. A special program, such as PKZip or WinZip is needed to extract the compressed files. Zipped files are particularly suitable for sending using e-mail, as they can significantly reduce transmission time.
When you use the Generate Report for Tech Support command, files containing information about your settings are automatically zipped and attached to the e-mail.
These programs compress files by searching for recurring patterns of data and notating them. Compression rates can range from just a small percentage to over 90% for text files.
WinZip is avai lable from www.winzip.com.
PKZip is avail able from www.pkware.com.
OMAX does not endorse or guarantee either of these products.
Zoom
Making the image larger ("zoom in") or smaller ("zoom out"). If the image is too large to fit in the screen, only a portion of the image is displayed. Originally used in photography and movie making.
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