Feature 1: Capable of Cutting Virtually Any Material

Abrasive waterjet machines are incredibly versatile cutting solutions that are capable of cutting
almost many materials. These machines are ideal for constructing complex and highly detailed
shapes quickly and precisely. Often, waterjet machines offer an ideal alternative for materials
inappropriate for thermal or laser cutting, and are exceptional for projects which require little to no
thermal stress.

The versatility of the waterjet makes it appealing to almost all industries – as there are very few
materials that it cannot work with, including tempered glass, and some forms of advanced ceramic.

Feature 2: Efficient and Fast

The process of using a waterjet machine is fast and efficient, completing complicated and extensive
tasks within as little time as possible. Waterjet machines can be set up quick due to the use of
advanced and easy-to-learn technology. From there, the cutting head can move carefully across the
material according to the shapes and results required.

Because most material cut with a waterjet will require the same head and the same process, there
are no changes needed in between material alterations. What’s more, the movements of the
machine can use computer programming, which means that workers simply have to stand back and
watch as stunning parts form.

Feature 3: Little to No Heat Generation

Unlike many other forms of cutting, the waterjet cutting process is “cold”, meaning that there is no
thermal pressure generated in the zones surrounding the cut. The use of a cold cutting process
means that metals and other materials can be shaped to standard without accidentally changing the
intrinsic properties of those materials through warping or distortion. Unlike plasma, laser, and flame
cutting, waterjet and abrasive jet procedures place no heat or mechanical pressures on the material
used, meaning that companies can achieve the ideal results, without risk.

Feature 4: No Fixturing Required

Because the waterjet process utilizes a very precise stream of water to erode and shape materials,
the need for fixturing is often reduced. In other words, with waterjet cutting, companies will not
have to worry about weighting the materials in place or clamping them to avoid mistakes.

Feature 5: Safe, and Environmentally Friendly

During the cutting process, a waterjet machine eliminates smoke, fumes, and airborne dust particles,
ensuring that contaminate cannot be released into the atmosphere and lead to operator exposure
risks. This can make the process of cutting materials like fiberglass and asbestos much safer and
easier.

What’s more, waterjets produce no hazardous waste, meaning that companies can minimize
disposal costs, and maximize upon the use of reusable scrap material often lost to traditional cutting
methods. Similarly, parts can nest closely together to maximize the value of materials, and the water
used during the process can be recycled through a closed-loop system.

Feature 6: Incredible Precision

Finally, waterjet cutting is extremely precise, with typical tolerances of around +/-0.1mm for many
materials. Waterjets give manufacturing companies the ability to routinely cut parts with precision,
through the use of computer software. What’s more, they are capable of tight tolerances, even
when the requirements of the projects force them to stray from straight-line geometrics.