REQUIREMENTS FOR SAFE OPERATION OF THE

ABRASIVE WATER JET (AWJ) MACHINE

Failure to comply with any and or all of these safety rules will result in immediate dismissal from the lab

A) Safety glasses must be worn at all times when in the area of the AWJ. This includes when the machine is “on” and “off.”

B) It is recommended that proper hearing protection also be used when operating the AWJ.

C) At no time is the AWJ to be left cutting unattended. Someone is to be at the machine at all times while it is running. Software glitches can cause the cutting head to veer off unexpectedly resulting in severe damage to the machine.

D) The AWJ is not to be operated without a T.A. or AML supervisor in the immediate area. Each student is responsible to know how to emergency stop the AWJ before starting the machine.

E) WARNING!! Do not under any circumstances place any part of your body in the area of the water jet while the machine is in operation or the intensifier pump is "on.” Serious injury will result from not adhering to this rule. The AWJ will cut through flesh and bone just a quick as it cuts through any other material.

F) Do not operate the AWJ without making sure water is being supplied to the pumping unit. The pump is contains stainless steel components and utilizes water as the lubricant for these parts. Failure to supply water to the pump will result in immediate mechanical failure to the system. Also, be certain system pressure does not exceed 40,000 p.s.i. Pump repair costs are in excess of $1500 and will most likely put the machine out of commission for the entire semester.

G) Do not operate the machine with the plastic gate/enclosure is opened.

H) Before powering up the AWJ, make certain that the nozzle, is free of the workpiece and will not run into any of the fixturing components. Also, make certain all loose tools, measuring tools, and other miscellaneous components have been removed from the work envelope.

I) WARNING!! Make certain that the workpiece is securely fixtured and that all components of the fixture are securely fastened to the table. If you are not sure if your setup is safe, have your TA check it out before you begin cutting. Pay extra attention to the position and angle of clamping devises.

J) Never attempt to measure, remove, or clean parts while the machine while the AWJ is in operation or the pump system is on.

K) Parts and scrap produced by the AWJ process can be razor sharp. Proper safety equipment (such as gloves) must be used when handling these items.

L) Do not attempt to change any of the system settings or mechanical components without the supervision or permission of AML staff.

M) Report ALL system problems to AML staff immediately.

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If you do not know how to operate a machine or do not fully understand the instructions you have been given, ask a supervisor until you are certain about what is required. IF YOU DON’T KNOW, ASK!

In signing this statement, I acknowledge that I have carefully read and fully understand the serious nature of working with the abrasive water jet machine. I also realize that other, undefined hazards will always exist in the manufacturing environment therefore, MY OWN SAFETY IS ULTIMATELY MY OWN RESPONSIBILITY. I will always “ask” if I am not sure of a potential safety hazard.

Signature: ____________________________________

Date: __________________________

Student I.D. #: _______________________________

Print Name: ___________________________________