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What is a Waterjet Cutting and Its Advantages and Consideration

• Publicado por John Scott 19 de dezembro de 2023 - Arquivado em Negócios - #waterjet cutting  - 10 visualizações

  There are a number of different cutting techniques and methodologies in use in different industries, Each of them has its own specific applications, advantages and considerations.  One cutting method that has gained a lot of acceptance in different applications and industries is waterjet cutting. It involves a stream of water fired at the target material at a very high pressure. Water can be shot in different shapes for different results like making wide flange beams or I beams from different metals.  This method is very simple and yet very effective and versatile. Here are some important basics of water cutting that you must know. 

   

  What is Waterjet Cutting?

   

  Waterjet Cutting is a method where a highly pressurized stream water is fired at the piece on which the cutting is required. For softer materials like rubber or wood a pure water stream can suffice but for harder materials like metal, water is mixed with abrasive material and then the stream is fired at very high pressure. The pressure typically ranges from 30,000 to 90,000 pounds per square inch (psi), but it can be even higher in certain applications. As the water stream comes in contact with the target surface, it erodes small pieces from it, which can be further used to remove material from the target workpiece in large quantities and yet very precisely.

   

  The nozzle from which the water is being shot out also plays a very important role in ensuring the pressure and precision as it defines the shape and size of the stream of water. As the whole process is done based on the Computer Numeric Control (CNC) system, it can be used for making something simple as a wide flange beam to some of the most complex shapes and designs. 

   

  Advantages of Waterjet Cutting: 

   

  • The first and most important advantage of water cutting is that it is very precise and very well finished. The entire process is based on CNC which means that even very small holes or precise cuts can be made with ease. As there is no metal on metal impact like the more traditional cutting methods, the product is also very well finished and rarely needs more steps like sanding etc. 

   

  • Second advantage is that water cutting is by its very nature, rather cool. Metal on metal cutting and sanding generate a lot of heat. Too much heat can cause problems like the material becoming misshapen due to heat. While this may be tolerable in cases where tight tolerances are not a concern, heat will always be a big issue in precision manufacturing. A wide flange beam to be used in airtight or watertight equipment must be cut by a colder method to ensure tight tolerances, whereas traditional use I beams may not need this precision. 

   

  • Third advantage of waterjet cutting is that it has minimal wastage and environmental impact. The very high degree of precision in cutting means that it only removes material not needed and greatly reduces the risk of rejection of finished product because of manufacturing defects. SImilarly since no harmful chemicals are involved in the process, it does not impact the environment negatively. 

   

  Considerations of Waterjet Cutting: 

   

  If you are going to get a waterjet cutting machine installed in your facility, the primary consideration should be that your staff should be properly trained in the operation, maintenance as well as safety aspects of the equipment. If you are planning to outsource the waterjet cutting work, make sure you choose a local vendor with a lot of experience in the field. Th