Imagine this, a fine stream of water that exits at 2700 feet per second, or 2.5 times the speed of sound.
Waterjet cutting is a process where a jet stream is forced through a small nozzle at a very high pressure. In some cases the stream is assisted by an abrasive material, this is known as abrasive waterjet cutting. The abrasive stream is powerful enough to cut even the hardest materials, such as 12” thick steel.
Waterjet cutting is best described as a controlled accelerated erosion process; this gives it the ability to cut or erode through nearly any material known, making it one of the most versatile machines available.
Because it involves no chemicals or heat, warping and distortion typically associated with a laser, plasma, or flame table are eliminated, minimizing or excluding the need for a secondary process.
Benefits/Advantages
» High precision cutting tolerances, as tight as
+/- .005.
» Types of materials that can be cut are near
limitless (seeMaterial Chart).
» Saves on tooling expenses, reduces the need
for post machining because of its smooth cut.
» No warping or distortion of material,
metallurgical composition of the work piece
is not altered because no chemicals or heat
are used.
» Tight nesting, the diameter of the stream
(kerf) is only .005 to .050 depending on
material.
» Material thicknesses are nearly limitless.
» Low hourly rates.
» Prototyping and production.
» Can cut complex geometry.
» Rapid design changes, by using state of the art
software.
» Cuts materials considered “un-machinable” by
conventional cutting methods.
» No molding or tooling costs.
» Repeatability of your part with every order.
» Eliminates secondary process, leaves a smooth,
burr-free cut surface.
» No down time, increases part yield per hour.
» Minimal kerf and common line cutting of parts.
» Minimal force, less than 3 lbs. is exerted on
work piece, also reduces fixturing.
