Water jet cutting came into existence in the 1950s, where it was first used by an engineer who was trying to cut woods in the forest. Since then, it has become a popular way to cut flat surfaces. With time, the technique has improved to a large extent. It can also cut aluminum and stainless steel. The concept involves using a pressurized stream of water in order to clean materials and then eventually, cut them. The cutter is usually attached to a water pump ejecting water with a high pressure which may even reach 60,000 psi. In order to boost abrasion and the cutting action, Garnett can also be added to the water. Through abrasive cutting, one can cut a wide range of metals, as well, regardless of its thickness.
Waterjet Cutting Machine |
The mechanism is simple but the machining part is complex. It is, however, a versatile tool which is powerful and may be extended to almost any job or task in the industry.
How Does It Work?
- The first and foremost step is designing the piece with the help of a computer-aided program. Through this, the exact measurement of the object, the nature of material and thickness to be cut is actually ascertained.
- After designing the piece, it links to the corresponding program of the system.
- The program gets stored in the system or the database and then it is identified as per the requirement.
- The cut may range from a rough to a refined one. No matter what kind of cut it is, the edges will be clean and free from any imperfections. Again, the cut is also dependent on the price a customer is willing to pay.
Usage Of Water Jet Cutting
Water jet cutting is used in building circles, engineering and several other applications. It is much different from laser cutting or laser jet cutting. Whether you are a professional or an amateur, you need to know the subtle differences between laser jet cutting and water jet cutting. The best cutting method or technique is dependent on the kind of requirement you have.
Water Jet Cutting |
Water Jet Cutting Vs. Laser Jet Cutting
Water jet cutting is much better and more powerful than laser jet cutting. While laser jet cutting can cut only a limited range of materials, water jet cutting is capable of cutting more variety of materials; T which includes metals, concrete, ceramics, wood, and composites. It all depends on the thickness of the material. it is best meant for the materials that may be affected or damaged by heat. One of the big advantages of water jet cutting are that it maintains the structural integrity of the material. If laser technique fails to cut any material, one can use water jet cutting.
Besides other things, water jet cutting is widely used in cleaning automobiles, ships and also, to prepare surfaces. Since the surface doesn’t get oxidized here; hence there is no contamination involved.