The 3-axis Water Jet cutting system is designed for cutting 2-dimensional profiles or shapes out of flat sheet materials, ranging from sheet metal to metal plate and plastics. For a description of the abrasive water jet process, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_jet_cutter. It is important to note that in all but a few cases, water jet systems cut completely through a part, and do not have control over depth, like routers or milling machines.
Dimensional Limitations
The IFB4800 has a working range of 4’x 8′ with around a 6″ Z axis. This machine is equipped with state-of-the-art dynamic head technology, which eliminates the kerf taper common with water jets and can reliably produce parts with .005″ tolerances.
Procedure
1. Consider
What would you like to do? What material are you considering? What size is your project? What end-product do you want? What machine would you like to use? All CNC Lab assistants are available for consultation and walk-up file preparation/execution during their posted shifts (see calendar above).
2. Talk with a Coordinating TA
Think of the Coordinating TA as an advisor for your Water Jet cutting project. The Coordinating TAs hold regular office-hours in the 3D Print Lab (rm 1227) to meet with anyone seeking to use the CNC machines. To speak with the Coordinating TA, first look at their office-hours posted on the Scheduling TA Calendar (see above). You can reach the Coordinating TAs by emailing taubmancollegewaterjet@umich.edu and request an appointment during an available time slot. The Coordinating TA will reply to confirm the appointment. If the calendar is full, you may also stop by the 3D-Print Lab during scheduled office-hours as stand-by.
Bring your file(s) to the appointment with the Coordinating TA. He or she will review your geometry, discuss material choices and answer all your questions. At the end of the appointment, the Coordinating TA will work with you to schedule a cut time with a Lab Assistant on the Water Jet cutting Calendar. Note that both Calendars (Water Jet cutting and Scheduling) are available above.
3. Prepare Materials
Bring your file(s) to the appointment with the Coordinating TA. He or she will review your geometry, discuss material choices and answer all your questions. At the end of the appointment, the Coordinating TA will work with you to schedule a cut time with a Lab Assistant on the Water Jet cutting Calendar. Appointments to cut must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Note that both Calendars (CNC and Scheduling) are available above. Verify that material dimensions do not exceed the table size (4′ x 8′). Full instructions for the vacuum-press table can be provided by the Coordinating TAs or the Lab Assistants.
4. Cut with a Lab Assistant
Arrive to your scheduled shift with your prepared file(s) and material. Upon arrival, a Lab Assistant will prepare your Flowpath file and cut your project. If you have prepared your Flowpath file already, the Lab Assistant will review it before cutting. It is required for the student to be present for the duration of the cut.
5. Clean Up and Pay
It is the student’s responsibility to clean up after the cut is complete. All scrap material must be taken to the outside dumpster, and all debris/dust must be swept and discarded.
Once cleanup is complete, the Lab Assistant will give you a pay-ticket for the cut. Pay for all materials and Water Jet cutting at the Media Center. Be sure to attach the receipt to the pay-ticket. Return both items to the box labeled “PAID receipts” in the Fab Lab. Students who have outstanding charges or do not clean their scrap will not be able to schedule future appointments.
Materials
The machine can cut all metals and plastics, as well as rubber and wood. The material must be resistant to moisture, so wood is rarely used.
Contact
You can reach the Coordinating TAs by emailing taubmancollegewaterjet@umich.edu and request an appointment during an available time slot. The Coordinating TA will reply to confirm the appointment.