1. Mach 3 b X-Y System

As the inventor of abrasive waterjet machining, Flow is the world's largest and most experienced manufacturer of precision waterjet cutting systems. With nearly 35 years of experience and more than 10.000 installations worldwide, our systems offer superior field proven performance and value..

The Mach 3 b series system is a compact waterjet system that focuses all system controls through the powerful Windows ™ based FlowMaster/FiowXpert Intelligent Control System. In addition to reduced floor space, the system features simplicity and improved ease of use, maintenance and diagnostics. The Mach 3 b series waterjet system is based on proven machine tool design for ease of maintenance and durability. Unlike many other machines that use a low-cost vibratory method for stress relief, all structural weidments are thermal-stress relieved before machining to ensure tight tolerances.

The X. Y. and Z axes are servo-driven. A wide range of Flow's ultrahigh-pressure pumps can be integrated within the Flying Bridge machine frame and are easily removed for maintenance. This advanced system is specifically designed for waterjet and abrasivejet machining.

1.1 Work envelope

• Z-Stroke: approx. 150 mm


• Material Support Area:
• X-Axis: approx. 3,100 mm
• Y-Axis: approx. 2,100 mm

• X-Axis: approx. 3,000 mm
• Y-Axis: approx. 2,000 mm

1.2 Machine dimensions

• X-Axis: approx. 4,340 mm
• Y-Axis: approx. 4.520 mm
• Z-Axis (without high-pressure tubing): approx. 2,300 mm

• X-Axis: approx. 6,000 mm
• Y-Axis: approx. 7,000 mm
• Z-Axis (with high-pressure tubing): approx. 4,000 mm

* Dimensions refer to standard system without optional equipment, such as abrasive removal system, BigBag discharge station, etc. Note: The exact dimensions will be specified in a standard layout of the system after receipt of order.

1.3 Machine positional specifications

• X and Y axes linear positional accuracy: ± 0.06 mm/m
• X and Y axes repeatability: ± 10.x5 mm (for total working area)

1.4 Machine speed ranges

• Speed range: from 0 up to 12,700 mm/min
• Rapid traverse maximum: up to 12,700 mm/min
• Contouring maximum:* up to 7,620 mm/min

*depending on type and thickness of material and contour

1.5 Precision drive system

The drive system ensures maximum speed and power efficiency while maintaining constant backlash control. Linear axis assembly is driven by an AC servo motor which drives the axes via pre-loaded ball screw assembly. Servo amplifiers receive feedback from the rotary encoder, accomplishing a closed loop system.The system includes:

• X and NI axis utilization of recirculating ball, linear bearings and hardened precision-ground ways.
• The X axis machine base, utilizes Flow's unique "turning the nut' technology where the balk nut is rotated about a stationary ball screw. This approach enhances dynamic motion while virtually eliminating the effects of ball screw "whipping" during high speed moves.
• The Y axis and the vertical Z axis utilize the Flow 360- wraparound bellows for true sealed protection. The X axis base also utilizes bellow protection for true sealed protection as well as double shielding.

1.6 Light barrier

The light barrier prevents entrance into the front and lateral area of the machine during operation.

• Multi-ray-safety-light barrier (MSL), made by SICK
• Consisting of sender, receiver and mirror
• Integrated into the E-stop control circuit
• CE-approved

2. Dynamic Waterjet® XD

Dynamic Waterjet XD introduces the first high-precision 3-D cutting technology of its kind. Using a small articulated wrist, the original Dynamic Waterjet automatically tilts the waterjet cutting head in any direction up to 10 degrees to eliminate stream lag and kerf taper errors—resulting in the tightest part tolerances and highest cutting speeds. That same core technology has been developed further with Dynamic Waterjet XD, incorporating groundbreaking advantages with up to 60 degrees of articulation for bevel and 3-D part production.

• Rapid lift and drop is accomplished by precision servo drive
• Position feedback provides closed-loop control of the Z-Axis
• Provides up to 60° of motion
• Underwater or above-water operation
• 150 mm vertical travel
• Zero tool length design allows jet to maintain correct position without having to move the X or Y axis during multi-axis moves, resulting in a quicker. more accurate finished part
• Easy access cover protects critical precision components
• Laser-alignment using Flow's exclusive DynAlignmi System ensures ultimate precision
• Patented wrist design minimizes singularity moves when operating in 5-Axis mode, creating an optimized cut path and a more attractive finished part

Note: 60 degrees of motion does not guarantee a 60 degree effective angle cutting. Cutting models for taper compensation and compounded angles will often create the need for additional degrees of motion beyond the desired finished angle. When cutting with Dynamic Waterjet XD, it is important that you follow all safety requirements strictly.

3. DynaBeam - Laser height setter

The DynaBeam is used to determine the precise distance from the Dynamic Waterjet XD cutting head to the material intended to be cut on the work platform. An accurate distance ensures that standoff height and cut quality are maintained during cutting. The DynaBeam can also be used to "pre-map" the topography of the cutting material surface in advance of running the part program. Air supplied to the DynaBeam pressurizes the laser housing and clears water from the material surface during height measurement and during cutting by the cutting head.

4. LaserPointer - simplified alignment and positioning

For work piece setting purposes, a laser cross is positioned at the workpiece zero position. The cutting head automatically moves into this position, which is then set as the workpiece zero position as well as the zero position for the workpiece coordinate system. All coordinates are transferred internally to the new zero position. As the laser cross is arranged parallel to the respective axis of motion, it can also be used as an aid for axial parallelism alignment.

The LaserPointer is designed for use in harsh industrial environments. The laser diode is contained in a water-tight stainless housing. It produces a red cross that is clearly visible also in daylight. The misalignment between the laser cross and cutting head center is stored as a coordinate offset in the control.

The laser cross is not suitable for fine positioning or setting, but greatly simplifies workpiece zero setting and offers the experienced operator a setting range within a tolerance of several tenths of a millimeter.

Technical specification:

• Laser type: Laser diode
• Wavelength: 635 nm, red
• Laser class: 3 A
• Beam diameter on exit: 5x2 mm
• Degree of protection: IP 67
• Operating temperature: -10 °C to +40 °C

5. Flow UltraPierce Vacuum Assist System

UltraPierce is the unique patented device to pierce holes in brittle or laminated material, such as glass, ceramics, or fiber-glass reinforced material respectively, seals and gaskets. This eliminates mechanical pre-piercing of most materials. The UltraPierce unit is mounted to the cutting head. It contains a small vacuum unit and pinch valve to seal the cutting head when the unit is not in use. A solenoid control assembly is mounted to the carriage of the Z axis; it contains the solenoid valve and logic to control the UltraPierce unit.

6. Flow High-Pressure Pump 50i-S

Technical specification:

• Maximum working pressure: 4,150 bar
• Nominal working pressure: 4,150 bar
• Number of intensifiers: 1
• Power - TEFC motor: 37 kW (50 HP)
• Flow rate maximum.: 3,8 l/min
• Operating voltage: 400 V, 50 Hz