For my metal cutting and post-processing assignment, I chose to cut a deer on the diamond pattern.
After designing the shape in Adobe Illustrator, I loaded it into the ProtoMax Layout software in order to set the clean the image, set the path, etc.
ProtoMax Layout
After that, I sent the file to ProtoMax Make, where I set the metal thickness (determined with a digital caliper), and homed the machine.
Protomax Make
I made sure that the WaterJet machine was turned on, and there was enough water filling the tank. I placed the aluminum sheet on the cutting surface and secured it with the clamps. I then used the trace feature to make sure that the piece was cut close to the corner in order to conserve material.
Aluminum secured with clamps
Here is picture of the WaterJet in action!
Waterjet at work
Within a few minutes, my first piece was cut! Then, I repeated the process to create a duplicate!
Finished cut!
The first post-processing method I used was a file on the edges, being careful not the scratch the surfaces. The aluminum required minimal filing, because the material was quite thin and pristine.
Files used for filing the edges
The second method of post-processing I did was sand-blasting. I proceeded to sand-blast the faces of the diamonds to create a nice, smooth and even texture.
Me, sandblasting!
My last method I used was spray painting. I chose a fun green color to go with the naturistic vibes of the deer.
Spray paint color chosen
I found a bungee cord with hooks to hang both diamonds upright while I spray painted.
Diamonds being held by bungee cord
The bungee cords were also useful for drying the diamonds on the rack after I sprayed two layers of the color. Following up with a clear spray paint coat, in order to protect the color, I then set it out to dry.
Clear coat
Diamonds hanging to dry
Here are pictures of my cleaned workspaces:
Cost Analysis:
| Cost | Price | Source | Quantity | Total |
| Aluminum Sheet (12’’x12’’) | $3.33/sheet | Amazon | 1 | $3.33 |
| WaterJet Cutter Operator (in Texas) | $16.94 /hour | ZipRecruiter | 1 | $16.94 |
| WaterJet Machine Time | $15 /hour | Techni Waterjet | 1 | $15 |
| Sand Blaster Machine Time + Operator | $45/hour | Fixr | 1 | $45 |
| Files (10-piece set) | $14.97 | Home Depot | 1 | $14.97 |
| Green Spray Paint Can | $5.98 | Home Depot | 1 | $5.98 |
| Clear Coat Spray Paint Can | $5.98 | Home Depot | 1 | $5.98 |
| Total | $107.20 |
