Is one of the fastest growing industries, machine tools, waterjet cutting has proven to save time and cost of use, countless. See the advantages below to see how the waterjet could be for you.
Benefits of Waterjet cutting |
Tolerances tighter than +/- 0.005" are achievable, especially in thinner materials such as 1" stainless steel. However, high tolerances come with a price, sometimes up to 500% higher than if the same part had been specified with a tolerance of +/- 0.015". By being more flexible with tolerances, prices will plummet as cutting speeds increase. Waterjet cutting has the ability to vary tolerances in different locations on a part, ensuring the best pricing and quality.
Thickness
Materials ranging from 10" stainless steel to 0.010" acrylics can be cut by waterjet, making it a very versatile tool. Stacking of very thin materials to increase productivity is possible. Kerf ranges from 0.020" to 0.050".
Taper And Edge Finish
Taper and edge finish are directly related to cut speed. The greater the speed, the more taper and the coarser the edge finish. As the waterjet slows down, taper can be eliminated and the finish of about 120 achieved. Again, slower means an increase in time...and price. For a finer edge finish, use a finer abrasive.
No Heat Affected Zone
Waterjet cutting is a natural erosion process involving no chemicals or heat. Because of this, warping and distortion typically associated with laser, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting is eliminated, therefore minimizing the need for secondary processing.