Due to technological advancement, there are also advancements in the cutting industry with better cutting systems. The latest technology in cutting is known as waterjet cutting that uses high-pressure water stream where a narrow line is eroded in the stock material. However, an abrasive can be added to cut a variety of materials such as steel, titanium, and foam among others.
Since the abrasive is added at the nozzle, you can be able to switch between water-only cutting and abrasive waterjet cutting. Due to such flexibility, there is so much versatility with waterjet machines. Again the technology utilized in these water jet cutting systems, different shapes can be cut faster and accurately. Also, inexperienced operators are also able to make cuts accurately without the need trial-and-error.
The cutting process with waterjet systems utilizes a software that guides the cutting head. The high speed of thin water stream cuts the material faster. Since the stream of water is so small, only small material is wasted. As a result, the cost is considerably reduced for both the customer and the machine shop. The following are other benefits offered by waterjet cutting.
1. Almost any material could be cut.
Cuts of almost any materials are possible when the high pressure, water, and an abrasive are added. For instance, it can be used to cut tool steels, stainless steel, carbon steels, copper, titanium, granite, ceramics, and wood among others. This better compared to some traditional cutting equipment that would only cut specific materials.
2. No heat damage.
Waterjet cutting eliminates heat damage on the edges unlike some methods like laser and plasma cutting that result in heat zones. Therefore, materials like plastics and metals can be cut without melting, warping, or distorting them. This is possible because any heat is usually absorbed by water that returns to the tank. The only point where temperatures go high is when a thick metal part is pierced. Everything else will remain at room temperature.
3. Complex shapes can be cut.
It is one of the big advantage provided by waterjet cutting. Almost any shape can be cut. You can now cut sharp corners, pierce holes, bevels, and shapes that have minimal inner radii. At the same time, cutting time is significantly reduced because stacking, tabbing, and nesting help to optimize the material.
4. Environmental-friendly.
The cutting process with a waterjet is usually clean and does not result in chips, grindings, or hazardous gases. There is also no need for emulsions and oil during cutting. A waterjet machine can also be used to cut food products, textiles, and elastomers when using clean water.
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