OMAX, a brand of Hypertherm Associates, will present its latest abrasive waterjet cutting systems and software solutions at IMTS 2026, scheduled from Sept. 14–19 at McCormick Place in Chicago. Visitors can experience live demonstrations at booth #135020 in the East Building, where the company will showcase technologies engineered to improve cutting precision, operational efficiency, and production flexibility across a wide range of industrial applications.
A key highlight at the exhibition will be the debut of the OMAX Maxiem 1530X JetMachining Center equipped with the software-controlled VersaJET 5-axis cutting head. Designed for producing beveled edges, angled sides, and intricate three-dimensional geometries, the system offers cutting movement from 0 to 60 degrees while reducing the need for secondary finishing operations. The machine delivers ±0.003-inch linear positional accuracy and ±0.001-inch repeatability within a cutting envelope measuring 10 feet by 5 feet 2 inches.
The Maxiem 1530X also incorporates a variable frequency drive for enhanced motor control, helping reduce power consumption and maintenance requirements. An upgraded abrasive hopper design prevents external spillage and includes improved abrasive filtering. An optional clog detection feature automatically pauses the machine if abrasive flow is interrupted, enabling operators to quickly restore performance and resume production.
OMAX will also demonstrate the OptiMAX 60X JetMachining Center through continuous cutting sessions. Featuring the IntelliTRAX linear drive system, the machine offers traverse speeds of up to 350 inches per minute with one-micron-level closed-loop positioning feedback. The system is paired with the IntelliMAX software suite, enabling users to convert CAD designs into machined parts with faster programming and streamlined operation. The OptiMAX 60X will feature the TiltaJET taper-compensating cutting head, which dynamically adjusts nozzle positioning during cutting to reduce taper and improve edge quality for highly accurate finished parts.
Another featured system will be the MicroMAX Precision JetMachining Center, developed for ultra-fine abrasive waterjet machining. Delivering ±0.0001-inch linear positioning accuracy, the machine is suitable for electronics manufacturing and Wire EDM-related applications. Its compact nozzle configuration and vibration-isolated structure support highly detailed cutting performance.
For prototyping and small-scale production, OMAX will showcase the portable ProtoMAX cutting system. Designed with a 12-inch by 12-inch cutting envelope, the compact unit cuts materials up to one inch thick using a 5 hp direct-drive pump capable of producing 30,000 psi pressure. Its mobility and simplified installation make it suitable for educational institutions, workshops, and rapid prototyping environments.
The company will additionally present the ProNest CAD/CAM nesting software, designed for plasma, laser, waterjet, and oxyfuel cutting applications. The platform supports part design, CAD import, nesting, costing, quoting, and automated programming workflows that significantly reduce setup time for manufacturers.
