Rome, N.Y. – In the world of manufacturing and design 3-dimensional (3D) modeling allows for improved insight and increased control over the ultimate success in the manufacturing of various components leading to improved quality and production flexibility. With the ability to import 3D models and cut hundreds of near-net-shaped parts from sheets of material in one machine setup waterjet technology has been transformative in raw material prep and finished product realization. Bartell’s design engineers, manufacturing engineers, and machinist are working together to take full advantage of these capabilities with the addition of a Omax MAXIEM 1530 Waterjet to Bartell’s production center.
A waterjet produces cutting force by using a high-pressure pump to generate a flow of pressurized water through a nozzle located in the cutting head. Inside the nozzle, the pressurized water passes through a small-diameter hole to form a jet of water. The jet then passes through a section where a granular abrasive is added into the water stream. The resulting mixture of water and abrasive, or slurry, exits the nozzle as a cutting stream traveling at very high speed.
The waterjet can handle the transition from 3D model to tool path much easier than other types of machine technologies due to the lack of multiple tools to complete a single job. This is especially true when tasked with jobs for which programming consumes most of the total production time such as making prototypes or for short runs to meet just-in-time manufacturing. The new equipment also expands Bartell’s capability to process a wide variety of materials in which components can be manufactured. It can process materials in size up to 60.0” x 120.0” and 8.0” thick with repeatability of 0.002”.
Bartell President Pat Morocco feels that “Our efforts to innovate are not only focused on the world-class equipment we manufacture but in the way we create those solutions. All of the processes upstream in the development and realization of production systems affect the outcome and the addition of this advanced capability is another example of how Bartell is committed to our customers from start to finish.”
About Bartell Machinery Systems
Bartell Machinery Systems is a global leader in providing highly-engineered industrial manufacturing equipment for the Tire & Rubber, Oil & Gas, and Wire & Cable industries. Bartell has delivered innovative solutions to leading manufacturers since 1940, with over 8,500 machines installed worldwide. Bartell is headquartered in Rome, NY with sales and service capability around the globe.