How to Switch Materials on an OMAX Waterjet

Waterjet shops rarely spend the entire day cutting the same material. A typical production schedule may include aluminum in the morning, stainless steel in the afternoon, and plastic or composite materials before the day is done. While waterjet technology is capable of cutting an incredibly diverse range of materials, changing from one material to another can introduce setup challenges if cutting parameters must be adjusted manually.

The OMAX IntelliMAX software was designed to simplify this process. Rather than requiring operators to calculate settings for every new material, IntelliMAX includes a built-in material database that makes switching between materials fast and straightforward.

Simplify Material Selection

When creating a program in MAKE, operators simply select the material they plan to cut from a dropdown menu. The software automatically applies the corresponding machinability settings associated with that material.

This eliminates the need to manually enter complex cutting values each time a new job is loaded. Instead of spending time searching for the correct settings, operators can focus on getting parts into production quickly and efficiently.

For many shops, this can significantly reduce programming time while helping ensure consistent cutting performance across a wide range of materials.

Reduce Setup Time Between Jobs

Production schedules often change throughout the day. A shop may cut steel components for one customer and then immediately move to aluminum, brass, plastic, stone, or another material for the next order.

Without software assistance, switching materials can become a time consuming process of reviewing settings, checking references, and verifying cutting parameters.

IntelliMAX streamlines this workflow by allowing operators to select a new material and move forward with confidence. Because the software automatically adjusts the machinability settings, transitioning between jobs becomes faster and more predictable.

This is especially valuable in high-mix, low-volume production environments where frequent material changes are common.

Improve Consistency Across Operators

Programming knowledge often varies from one operator to another. Some users may have years of experience working with specialty materials, while others are still developing their knowledge of waterjet cutting processes.

By incorporating material information directly within the software, IntelliMAX helps standardize setup procedures throughout the shop.

Operators can select the appropriate material from the database rather than relying solely on memory or handwritten notes. This creates a more repeatable process and helps maintain consistency regardless of who is programming the part.

Flexibility for Unique Applications

While IntelliMAX includes an extensive material database, manufacturers are constantly discovering new applications and working with unique materials.

For situations where a material is not already listed, users can create and save custom materials within the software. Once added, those custom entries become available for future jobs just like any other material in the database.

This allows the material library to grow alongside the needs of the business while maintaining the same streamlined workflow operators use every day.

Keep Production Moving

One of the biggest advantages of waterjet technology is the ability to cut virtually any material on a single machine. The software controlling that machine should be just as flexible.

With IntelliMAX, switching between material types takes only a few clicks. By automatically applying machinability settings based on the selected material, the software helps reduce setup time, improve consistency, and simplify everyday programming tasks.

Whether you're cutting common metals or working with specialized materials, IntelliMAX helps keep production moving while making it easier to get the most from your OMAX waterjet system.