As reported by IQS Directory in their article, “Water Jet Cutting,” this advanced manufacturing process uses high-pressure jets of water to cut and shape various materials with extreme precision. Pressurized up to 392 MPa, the water jets reach speeds three times faster than the speed of sound, allowing for effective cutting of both soft and hard materials.
Water jet cutting comes in two primary forms: pure water jet cutting and abrasive water jet cutting. Pure water jet cutting, using only water, is ideal for soft materials like foam, rubber, and plastics. By adding abrasives, the process becomes robust enough to handle tougher materials such as titanium, stainless steel, and concrete. This versatility makes water jet cutting an essential tool for industries that require both precision and adaptability.
A key advantage of water jet cutting over other methods like laser or plasma cutting is its ability to maintain the integrity of the material being cut, without causing heat distortion or altering the temper. This ensures that the cut edges are clean and ready for welding or further processing without additional finishing.
One of the critical factors in water jet cutting is kerf width, which refers to the material removed during cutting. In water jet cutting, the kerf is typically as small as 0.04 inches, allowing for precise cuts even on complex designs. However, the initial piercing by the water jet, known as the pierce, is slightly wider than the regular kerf and can vary based on material and cutting method.
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Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of iqsdirectory.com.