Water jet manufacturer Jet Edge Inc. introduced the Milestone 5-axis precision water jet cutting machine. Capable of cutting virtually any material, the Milestone is available in three sizes, 5.5'x6.5' nominal (1700mm x 2000mm), 5.5"x13" nominal (1700mm x 4000mm) and 6.5'x13' nominal (2000mm x 4000mm). It features the innovative IKC 5-Axis water jet cutting head, which is capable of making inclined cuts and controlling kerf to ensure optimal part quality.

The IKC's capabilities include 600 degree rotation, a maximum angle of +/-60 degrees, and dynamic precision from +/-0.2 to +/-0.5mm/m, depending on the tilt of head. The Milestone's high-precision ground rack and pinion X and Y axes and ball-screw-driven 5.9" (150mm) Z axis, make it one of the most accurate waterjet systems available. It maintains a cutting tolerance +/-0.004" (0,1mm/m) and repeatability accuracy tolerance of +/-0.001" (0,025mm) and supports a contouring and rapid feed rate of 0-1575 ipm (0-40000mm/min.)

Motion components are protected by steel covers with labyrinth lip seals to ensure lasting performance. The Milestone is equipped with programmable contact height sensing and comes standard with one 5-axis cutting head; a second 5-axis or 3-axis cutting head can be added. Its many options include a rotating axis for pipe cutting, fire jet etching system, a drill and twin shuttles. Free software updates are included for the life of the machine.

The Milestone's monolithic design expedites installation and makes it easy to relocate if necessary. The machine can support material up to 2,200 lbs/10.8 sf (1000 kg/mq). Its rigid fixed upright bridge structure can be moved out of the way for forklift or crane loading.