Michael Waltrip Racing Speeds Up Waterjet Cutting with 90,000 PSI Jet Edge X-Stream Waterjet Pump

Michael Waltrip Racing (MWR) has installed a 90,000 psi Jet Edge X-Stream xP90-100 waterjet intensifier pump at its fabrication shop in Cornelius, N.C. The pump will power MWR's Jet Edge waterjet cutting system, which it uses to make parts for its three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams and its NASCAR Nationwide Series team.

MWR plans to achieve much faster cutting speeds and drastically lower its operating costs with its new Jet Edge X-Stream pump. The pump produces 50% more pressure than a typical 60,000 psi waterjet intensifier pump, resulting in a 40-50% increase in productivity for many materials. As a result of these faster cutting speeds, MWR can expect to use 30% less water, 30% less power, and up to 50% less abrasive.

"These days we're all looking for ways to save time and money, and Jet Edge's X-Stream pump does both," said Nick Hughes, MWR's technical director. "We couldn't ask for anything more."

According to Hughes, MWR has been running its Jet Edge waterjet system 60 to 65 hours per week since installing it in the spring of 2008. It now waterjets 250 parts for each of its racecars. The parts are cut from a wide variety of materials ranging from ¼" Nomex® to ½" steel, and include numerous panels, mounts and chassis components, plus duct work, windows, splitter panels and much more. MWR builds about 56 cars per year, which include the #55 NAPA AUTO PARTS Toyota Camry driven by Michael Waltrip and fielded by MWR, the #00 Aaron's Dream Machine Toyota Camry driven by David Reutimann and fielded by MWR, the #47 Little Debbie® Toyota Camry driven by Marcos Ambrose fielded by JTG-Daugherty Racing through a technical alliance with MWR, and the NASCAR Nationwide Series #99 Aaron's Dream Machine Toyota Camry driven by David Reutimann fielded by MWR.

MWR has experienced tremendous productivity gains since installing its Jet Edge waterjet system, Hughes said.

"After we installed our Jet Edge last year, we increased our productivity by 50 percent and were able to get technology improvements to the racetrack two weeks faster than in the past," he said. "This resulted in some very respectable finishes that got everybody talking about Michael Waltrip Racing. It really comes down to machining time. We can cut parts a lot faster on the waterjet than on the milling center. We are also producing better quality parts and we are seeing huge reductions in material waste thanks to the Jet Edge's tight nesting capabilities."

Hughes noted that the Jet Edge waterjet was instrumental in the development of MWR's newest racecar, the Series 600.

"The Jet Edge waterjet was key to the redesign," Hughes said. "It enabled us to design and produce parts at a moment's notice. We were able to get the project done much faster and much more cost effectively than we could have in the past. As we enter our third year of Sprint Cup Series competition, there is no doubt that we will be placing even more demands on our Jet Edge waterjet. The X-Stream pump's faster cutting speeds will help us keep up with that demand."

For the latest updates on Michael Waltrip Racing's use of the Jet Edge waterjet system, and for more information about Jet Edge, visit www.jetedge.com, call 1-800-JET-EDGE (538-3343) or e-mail sales@jetedge.com. For more information about Michael Waltrip Racing, visit www.michaelwaltrip.com.

About Jet Edge
Established in 1984, Jet Edge is a global designer and manufacturer of waterjet systems for precision cutting, surface preparation and coating removal. Jet Edge systems are used around the world in a broad range of industries, from the world's leading airlines to automotive, aerospace, industrial manufacturers, machine and job shops. Jet Edge waterjet systems are proudly made in the U.S.A. For more information about Jet Edge, visit www.jetedge.com, e-mail sales@jetedge.com or call 1-800-JET-EDGE (538-3343).

Used Water Jet Machines, Pumps Available from Jet Edge

Jet Edge, Inc., a leading manufacturer of ultra-high pressure waterjet and abrasivejet systems for precision cutting, coating removal and surface preparation, is now posting used waterjet equipment for sale on www.jetedge.com.

Jet Edge’s used equipment inventory includes ultra-high pressure intensifier pumps, motion systems, accessories and mobile cleaning and cutting equipment. For more information about Jet Edge’s new and used waterjet equipment, visit www.jetedge.com, call 1-800-JET-EDGE (538-3343) or e-mail sales@jetedge.com.

New CAD/CAM Nesting Software for Waterjets is Easy to Learn and Use

Jet Edge is now offering the easy-to-learn and use SigmaNEST Companion™ CAD/CAM nesting software on its precision waterjet cutting systems.

Developed by SigmaTEK Systems, LLC, of Cincinnati, SigmaNEST Companion uses a wizard-based approach to allow waterjet operators with little or no CAD/CAM experience to design, edit and nest parts quickly with little training. Available at a fraction of the cost of the full SigmaNEST program, Companion features numerous SigmaNEST functions such as DXF import, TrueShape nesting, automatic path generation, and NC code generation. With it, waterjet operators can load DXF files to automatically or manually nest parts. They also can create new tasks using standard shapes available in the program’s library. Companion also allows operators to edit part parameters and generate a variety of custom reports, including cost, layout and summary reports.

Jet Edge manufactures a full line of precision waterjet cutting machines, intensifier pumps and waterjet parts. Jet Edge waterjet tables are available in a wide range of sizes, from 30”X30” to 30’X100’. Jet Edge waterjet intensifier pumps are capable of producing pressures from 30,000psi to 90,000psi. They are available in electric and diesel models ranging from 30hp to 280hp. Jet Edge’s open-architecture motion controllers are compatible with most CAD/CAM software, including SigmaNEST and SigmaNEST Companion. For more information about Jet Edge, visit www.jetedge.com, call 1-800-JET-EDGE (538-3343) or e-mail sales@jetedge.com. For more information about SigmaNEST, visit www.sigmanest.com, call (513) 674-0005 or e-mail sales@sigmanest.com.

Water Jet Manufacturer Jet Edge Participating in Minnesota's Trade Mission to Israel

Jet Edge, Inc., a leading manufacturer of ultra-high pressure (UHP) waterjet and abrasivejet systems for precision cutting, coating removal and surface preparation, is pleased to announce that Jet Edge International Sales Manager David J. Anderson will join the Minnesota Trade Office’s Business Development Mission to Israel, Dec.11-18, 2008.

Anderson is one of 30 business delegates who will participate in the mission led by Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty. The delegation’s objectives are to acquire market information and business contacts, increase Minnesota exports to Israel, facilitate high-tech exchanges and collaboration, and develop strategic relationships with key organizations that support U.S.-Israeli trade and investment. As one of the world’s most prominent centers of innovation and technology, Israel offers a wealth of opportunities for high-tech exchanges and collaboration. Additionally, with one of the best economic growth rates in the Middle East and an affinity for American products, Israel presents significant market opportunities for Minnesota exporters.

For more information, visit http://www.jetedge.com, e-mail sales@jetedge.com or call 1-800-JE-EDGE (538-3343).

90,000 PSI Waterjet Pump Increases Productivity, Reduces Costs

Capable of producing pressures in excess of 90,000psi, Jet Edge’s new 100hp X-Stream xP90-100 waterjet intensifier pump achieves much faster cutting speeds and drastically lowers operating costs compared to traditional 60,000psi pumps, enabling users to increase productivity and reduce part costs.

The X-Stream produces 50% more pressure than a 60,000psi waterjet intensifier pump, resulting in a 40-50% increase in productivity for many materials. The X-Stream supports a 75,000psi continuous operating pressure. Compared to a 60,000psi pump, typical operating pressures of 75,000psi use 30% less water, 30% less power, and up to 50% less abrasive, resulting in a 40% reduction in operating costs. They typically reduce taper by up to 0.001”. The X-Stream is capable of producing flow rates of 1.45gpm and supports up to a .017” orifice. Its fittings and tubing are rated for 100KSI. The X-Stream is backed by nearly 10 years of extensive research and development in hyper-pressure technology.

For more information about the Jet Edge X-Stream xP90-100 intensifier pump or other Jet Edge waterjet equipment, visit www.jetedge.com, e-mail sales@jetedge.com or call 1-800-JET-EDGE.

About Jet Edge
Established in 1984, Jet Edge is a global designer and manufacturer of waterjet systems for precision cutting, surface preparation and coating removal. Jet Edge systems are used around the world in a broad range of industries, from the world's leading airlines to automotive, aerospace, industrial manufacturers, machine and job shops. Jet Edge waterjet systems are proudly made in the U.S.A.

Jet Edge Waterjet Systems Video Features Michael Waltrip

Jet Edge, Inc. is pleased to announce its new video featuring Michael Waltrip, owner of Michael Waltrip Racing and driver of the No. 55 NAPA AUTO PARTS Toyota Camry in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

Click Here to see the video!

In the video, Waltrip and Dr. Eric Warren, MWR's vice president and technical director, explain how MWR is successfully using Jet Edge's top-selling High Rail Gantry Waterjet System at its fabrication shop in Cornelius, N.C., to cut parts for its three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams (#55 Cup-Michael Waltrip, #44 Cup-David Reutimann, #00 Cup-Michael McDowell) and Nationwide Series team (#99-David Reutimann).

Warren notes that MWR already is seeing substantial time and cost savings with Jet Edge waterjet technology. He estimates that they are saving about $130,000 per year by cutting the racecars' polycarbonate splitter panels in-house. MWR also is saving hours of time by rough cutting steering spindles on the waterjet versus a bandsaw. This process used to take three to four hours; it now takes 30 to 35 minutes.

MWR's Jet Edge waterjet system is powered by a 50hp, 60,000psi Jet Edge iP60-50 intensifier pump. The fully 3-axis programmable system features dual Permalign II abrasive cutting heads on a 4' spreader bar that are capable of cutting complex parts out of virtually any material. The system is equipped with a Digital Readout for Multi Head Positioning that digitally displays cutting head positions, eliminating manual measurement, as well as a pneumatic drill for automatic pre-piercing of materials prone to delamination prior to cutting them with waterjet. It also features SigmaNEST® CAD/CAM nesting software developed by SigmaTEK Systems, LLC, of Cincinnati, Ohio, plus a Closed Loop Filtration System and Abrasive Removal System manufactured by Ebbco Inc. of New Baltimore, Mich., and a Bulk Abrasive Storage System manufactured by GMA Garnet (USA) of Houston, Texas.

For more information about Jet Edge, visit www.jetedge.com, call 1-800-JET-EDGE (538-3343) or e-mail sales@jetedge.com. For more information about Michael Waltrip Racing, visit www.michaelwaltrip.com.

Jet Edge Introducing New Mid Rail Gantry Waterjet Machine at FABTECH 2008

Jet Edge, Inc. will introduce its new Mid Rail Gantry Waterjet System at the FABTECH International & AWS Welding Show, Oct. 6-8, 2008, in Las Vegas. Look for Jet Edge in booth 4257.

< View Product Specifications.

The Jet Edge Mid Rail Gantry Waterjet System features an 8'X13' work envelope with an exposed tank that easily accommodates overhead loading. It comes standard with one abrasivejet cutting head; a second cutting head can be added to increase productivity. The Mid Rail Gantry is ball-screw driven for higher accuracy. Its sturdy heavy-wall tubular steel construction eliminates vibration and increases longevity. The Mid Rail Gantry utilizes an industrial PC controller and can be configured so that all three axes are fully programmable (Z optional). It also features direct-couple AC brushless digital servo motors and single or double carriages. Critical bearing components are protected with heavy metal covers with flexible lip seals. Like all Jet Edge products, the Mid Rail Gantry is proudly made in the U.S.A.

During FABTECH, Jet Edge also will showcase its 90,000 psi X-Stream xP90-100 and 60,000 psi iP60-50 intensifier pumps.

Capable of producing pressures in excess of 90,000psi, the 100hp X-Stream achieves much faster cutting speeds and drastically lowers operating costs compared to traditional 60,000psi pumps, enabling users to increase productivity and reduce part costs. The X-Stream produces 50% more pressure than a 60,000psi intensifier pump, resulting in a 40-50% increase in productivity for many materials. The X-Stream supports a 75,000psi continuous operating pressure. Compared to a 60,000psi pump, typical operating pressures of 75,000psi use 30% less water, 30% less power, and up to 50% less abrasive, resulting in a 40% reduction in operating costs. They typically reduce taper by up to 0.001". The X-Stream is capable of producing flow rates of 1.45gpm and supports up to a .017" orifice. Its fittings and tubing are rated for 100KSI. The X-Stream is backed by nearly 10 years of extensive research and development in hyper-pressure technology.

Featuring the most advanced technology for extended-life hydraulics, a reliable tie-rod design and easy maintenance with no threads on the high pressure cylinders, the 50-horsepower iP60-50 produces up to 60,000 psi (4,100 bar), and provides flow rates of 0 to 1.1 gallons (5 liters) per minute to a variety of cutting, surface-preparation or cleaning tools. The iP60-50 provides easy access for all service and maintenance. It features a non-threaded high-pressure cylinder with a warranty -- even on replacement cylinders, an improved performance check valve, and low torque requirements.