Revitalised: Griffith University’s OMAX MAXIEM 1515 water jet cutting machine gets a second chance

Griffith University, known for its commitment to research, sustainability, and student engagement, faced a challenge with its aging MAXIEM 1515 water jet cutting machine. As a critical tool for the support of research and learning, its aging had raised concerns. Budget constraints and a planned workshop relocation added further complexity. Rather than investing in a new, less capable machine, the university explored a more sustainable option: upgrading the existing machine with the expertise of Headland, a trusted partner for over a decade.

About Griffith University: For 50 years, Griffith University has proudly done things differently. Since 1975, their teaching and research have focused on addressing critical social and environmental issues, a mission that remains vital today.

Driven by social and environmental responsibility, they lead in areas like modern Asian studies, environmental science, First Peoples’ support, social justice, and sustainability. Ranked in the top 2% globally, their industry-aligned degrees are designed for future impact.

With over 45,000 students across five South East Queensland campuses and a digital campus, plus 200,000+ global alumni, they are committed to creating a better world. By empowering individuals to build brighter futures, they are shaping a better future for all. More about Griffith University

The Challenge

Griffith University’s workshop in Brisbane, Queensland, relied on the MAXIEM 1515, but its age and the additional maintenance costs, increasing needed to be addressed. The university needed to decide between purchasing a new but potentially less capable machine or upgrading the existing system to extend its lifespan and enhance capability.

Budget limitations made replacing the machine difficult, and sustainability efforts encouraged maximising current resources. The upcoming move from a temporary facility a newly constructed building presented the perfect opportunity for an upgrade.

Jens Bergmann, Workshop Manager at Griffith University, explained the predicament:

“We had to weigh our options carefully. A new machine from a competitor for the same price as the upgrade would be a step back in capability, and the cost was a major consideration. But we also couldn’t continue to invest larger maintenance costs annually, that is typical with an older machine. The move presented the perfect time for an upgrade, and given Headland’s expertise, they were the obvious choice.”

The solution and implementation

Understanding the university’s constraints and goals, Headland Fabrication experts proposed a comprehensive upgrade for the MAXIEM 1515. This approach would not only restore the machine’s performance but also enhance its safety, reduce noise levels, and extend its lifespan by another decade.

The upgrade process

The upgrade process will be comprehensive, encompassing both hardware and software enhancements to improve overall performance and reliability. Key highlights of the hardware upgrades include the installation of the Enduromax 30HP pump upgrade, which significantly enhanced performance and reliability. The upgrade also featured the Maxjet 5i Nozzle Body, which improved cutting precision. Other notable hardware improvements included the Rapid Water Level Control system, which reduced noise and enhanced safety, and the 24,000 BTU Water Chiller, which maintained optimal temperatures for peak performance. The tank refurbishment involved cleaning and epoxy-coating the internal walls to extend durability.

On the software and automation side, the upgrade introduced Dell precision 3680 tower workstations, equipped with Intel i9 processors and NVIDIA RTX 2000 graphics, delivering enhanced processing power. The addition of Dell 27” monitors improved visualization and workflow efficiency.

The upgrade also included a range of spares and consumables to ensure sustained performance, such as pump cylinders, pump check valve bodies, metal last chance filters, pump liquid displacers, Enduromax rebuild kits and mixing tubes.

Expected impact

With this extensive upgrade, Griffith University can expect a significantly improved user experience. The MAXIEM 1515 will be quieter, safer, and far more efficient. The enhancements also align with Griffith’s sustainability initiatives by reducing the need for a new machine, thereby minimising waste and resource consumption. The university’s workshop team will benefit from a more powerful and reliable system, enabling better research outcomes and more effective student training.

Final thoughts & quote

Reflecting on the experience, Jens shared:

“We have been extremely satisfied with OMAX and have relied on their technology for many years, consistently impressed by its performance. The support from Headland has also been exceptional, which is why we’ve remained loyal to them. We were particularly pleased when they provided a solution that perfectly aligned with our budget.”

This sentiment underscores the trust and satisfaction in both the OMAX technology and our commitment to delivering tailored, cost-effective solutions.

Looking ahead: The final outcome

This case study will conclude in May/June when the upgraded machine is fully operational in the new facility. We will revisit Griffith University and Jens Bergmann to assess the performance improvements and overall satisfaction with the upgrade. The temporary workshop will be repurposed, and the team will have moved into their new state-of-the-art space.

Stay tuned as we follow Griffith University’s journey toward a smarter, more sustainable future with their revitalised MAXIEM 1515.

Are you facing challenges with aging equipment in your manufacturing or engineering workshops?

Contact our metal fabrication experts to find out how we can help! Whether it’s budget-friendly upgrades to extend the life of your existing equipment or tailored solutions to enhance performance, we’re here to support your institution’s goals.