Machine Tools – Non-Traditional

Hypertherm Associates’ OMAX plans to “put decades of advanced waterjet engineering expertise on display” at IMTS 2026 in Chicago from Sept. 14-19 at McCormick Place, booth #135020 in the East Building. Attendees can view live machine demonstrations for every machine and technology displayed in the booth to showcase how OMAX waterjets enhance cutting accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility compared to traditional cutting methods.

The MAXPRO200 FlushCut consumables from Hypertherm Associates were designed for thick‑metal removal applications. FlushCut allows operators to remove attachments, including pad eyes, D-rings, lifting lugs, and alignment fixtures, up to 90 percent faster than traditional oxyfuel methods, while reducing grinding by up to 40 percent without damaging the base material, the company said.

Mazak Optonics Corporation, a leading manufacturer of advanced laser-cutting solutions, announces the official launch of its affiliate brand, OPTONICS, in the United States market. Developed to meet the evolving needs of modern manufacturing, the OPTONICS brand represents the collaboration of advanced machinery, experienced professionals, and a shared commitment to solving production challenges—allowing workshops to compete effectively in today’s markets.

At the end of January, Bystronic completed the acquisition of the Tools for Materials Processing division of the US company Coherent Corp. With this acquisition, Bystronic plans to expand into several growth markets such as medical technology and semiconductors.

Bodor Laser, a manufacturer of fiber laser cutting systems, announced the launch of its Space Series 3D five-axis laser cutting system at FABTECH 2025 in Chicago. The new system is designed for industries requiring complex, high-precision parts, including automotive, aerospace, mold making, and construction machinery.

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For faster, easier cleaning, the casting of the CUT 400 S Dedicated is designed so that tank water constantly runs down the interior sides of the work envelope, keeping them wet and preventing EDM residue from drying and hardening. This sticky residue also plays havoc with an EDM's filter and drive systems.

In addition to featuring its Cut F 600 wire EDMing machine and Mill S 200 U five-axis linear drive machine, GF Machining Solutions highlighted the micromachining capabilities of its Microlution product line. n

Laser machining has distinct advantages and disadvantages

The OptiMax from Omax is an accurate, efficient, general-purpose cutting machine with improved automation.

The CUT F 600's intuitive Uniqua human/machine interface (HMI) delivers optimal functionality and ergonomics with a 19" vertical touchscreen, full keyboard and mouse. For the utmost compatibility, Uniqua supports legacy file types from various EDM manufacturers, and with offline and at-the-machine programming, ISO-based functionality and object-oriented programming, Uniqua provides a powerful graphic tool with integrated CAM and also ensures compatibility with major CAD/CAM programs.

The printer features two 200-watt lasers and a multiplate option, which allow users to run multiple builds without operator intervention by automatically exchanging the build plate. Users can stack up to four build plates on top of each other in the build cylinder, and the system prints components on them one after the other.