Five-axis water jet breakthrough
1 min read
The WJS NC3520S 5-axis water jet profiler will extend the applications of waterjet cutting technology even further as it opens up the way to three-dimensional cutting of components at a single setting.
The multi-head version is capable also of cutting intricate shapes to extremely tight tolerances, such as the alloy support ribs for aircraft wings.
The machine is fitted with Fanuc controlk and drives. The 300i nano-seconds CNC system, with its open architecture, together with a mix of GE Fanuc’s robust Alpha i and Beta i-series servos, allows WJS to offer what it believes is the best possible machine/control combination.
The horizontal positioning along the X-axis (across the bed) and along the Y-axis continues to be provided by Fanuc Alpha i –Series servomotors using traditional ball screw mechanisms. The height of the nozzle outlet above the material being cut (the Z-axis) is by Beta i servos. All are powered by GE Fanuc servo amplifiers.
Says WJS managing director, Lennart Svensson: “We are now using GE Fanuc CNCs and drives to control accuracy and ensure the ultra-reliability that can enable 24hr production with confidence. Our customers see the purchase of these machines as a long-term investment in high productivity and technology."
