When experiencing performance issues, it is important to check two locations - the dry abrasive system and the high pressure hydraulic system. This encompasses the hardware aspect of the cut. If the WAZER hardware is running ideally, the partial cut could come from the material and/or cut file settings.
To check the WAZER hardware, follow the instructions found below:
High Pressure Hydraulic System
- The first thing to check for is making sure the pressure ranges are within spec. Check the following locations:
Supply Water Filter/Gauge -
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While idle, make sure the filter canister along the water supply line is above 35 psi. Does it fluctuate while idle? Fluctuation is a sign that there are other appliances along the water line. This could affect the pump box’s performance if the pressure drops too low during operation.
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Run a “Nozzle Purge” test in the Maintenance Menu. Does the Gauge remain above 35 psi the entire duration?
HP Gauge - (Found on the left side of the Pump Box)
- Run a “Nozzle Purge” test in the Maintenance Menu. Does the gauge reach and sustain in the green zone (approx. 3,800 psi to 4,000 psi) while water is exiting the cutting head?
- Finally, make sure the cutting head is in good condition. The high pressure orifice located at the center of the cutting head can be tested to confirm its condition.
(Orifice Health Check - Checking Stream Quality — WAZER | The First Desktop Waterjet.)
Dry Abrasive System
- The first thing to check is for any potential clogs along the system. At the bottom of this post is a diagram of the dry abrasive system and all 3 of it’s potential clogging locations. Starting with the hopper, remove the black rubber catch and hose from the pinch valve. Press the pinch valve button to test for abrasive flow from the hopper. (Pictured below)
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If there is no flow, there is a clog in the hopper. To clear the clog, follow these instructions.(https://www.wazer.com/resources/maintenance/procedures/clearing-the-dry-abrasive-hoppe
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If there is flow, we want to make sure the flow-rate is within the appropriate spec. to cut at peak performance. Please measure the flow-rate with a scale.(https://www.wazer.com/resources/maintenance/procedures/checking-the-abrasive-rat
- After the hopper is showing a good abrasive flow, please check the dry abrasive hose for suction. This can be done with a “Nozzle Purge” test in the maintenance menu. Leave the hose attached to the cutting head and place your finger on the end of the hose under the hopper. (Quick Check for Abrasive Suction — WAZER | The First Desktop Waterjet.)
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If there is no/little suction, that means the hose is clogged. It can be cleared out with compressed air. Remove both ends of the hose and blow air from the hopper side up.(Clearing the Dry Abrasive Hose — WAZER | The First Desktop Waterjet.)
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If the suction is strong enough to stick to your finger and defy gravity, there is no clog present and no further action is needed. Please note that the suction will only be present in the hose when high pressure water is exiting the cutting head and creating the venturi effect.
This concludes the hardware checks when troubleshooting the performance of the WAZER. If everything appears to be in ideal condition, the cut settings and material will need to be looked at a little further.
I hope this information is helpful to anyone who comes across it - Let me know if you have a certain workflow or tool to help maintain the performance of your WAZER!