What is Waterjet Cutting?
Waterjet cutting is a useful industrial process, utilising high-pressure jets of water mixed with abrasive to precisely cut material. It is a desirable method due to the lack of any negative effects of heat – it is a cold-cutting process so there is no heat-affected zone (HAZ).
Waterjet cutting uses a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) process. This means that parts are produced by computers and software control machine tools, facilitating high-precision and the ability to produce complex parts.
The machine produces a jet of water; this exits the nozzle at up to three times the speed of sound. This, mixed with abrasive material, can effectively cut through most materials with remarkable accuracy.
The versatile process also produces a superior edge quality. The method produces smooth and burr-free edges, meaning that secondary finishing is rarely necessary. The process is also environmentally friendly as it does not utilise hazardous chemicals. In addition to this, no toxic fumes are produced.
Two Waterjet Heads and 5-Axis Cutting:
Our machine also possesses two waterjet heads; one of which is 5-axis. This allows the cutting head to tilt and rotate, thereby facilitating the cutting of complex 3D shapes, bevels and countersinks. The 5-axis head also allows for taper control, eliminating the V-shaped taper found in thicker materials; the finished edge is perfectly square.
The dual heads enable simultaneous cutting, which enhances our production capacity. This means that we can offer a faster turnaround than competitors who only offer single head cutting. Waterjet cutting is a worthwhile investment for complex projects which require a high-quality finish. The process is versatile, precise, and not damaged by heat; waterjet cutting is the strongest option by far when it comes to producing high-quality cutting.
Our Waterjet Cutting Service in the UK:
At D.S. Willetts we offer a waterjet cutting service, allowing us to offer a superior cutting quality to standard cutting methods. We have a TCI Waterjet machine, with a bed size of 6000mm x 3000mm. Our machine can cut up to 200mm thick, offering precise and accurate cutting (+/-0.25mm tolerances).
The narrow cutting width (kerf) allows for parts to be “nested” closely together on a sheet. This also makes waterjet cutting an ideal selection for cutting material, as the close nesting reduces raw material waste and scrap costs.
Interested in our Waterjet services?
Contact us today! – sales@dswilletts.co.uk/ +44 (0) 1902 404 221
To find out more about our other services, please follow this link – Our Services
