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Waterjet Cutting

Used Machines|Waterjets An easy-to-use and highly versatile option, waterjet cutting machines allow you cut into nearly any material imaginable. |

WATER CUTTING – HOW IT WORKS

The energy required for cutting materials is obtained by pressurizing water to ultra-high pressures and forming an intense cutting stream by focusing this high-speed water through a small, precious-stone orifice. There are two main steps involved in the waterjet cutting process.
  1. The Electric Servo Pump generally pressurizes normal tap water at pressure levels above 50,000 psi; to produce the energy required for cutting.
  2. Water is then focused through a small precious stone orifice to form an intense cutting stream. The stream moves at a velocity of up to 3 times the speed of sound, depending on how the water pressure is exerted.
The process is applicable to both water only and abrasive jets. For abrasive cutting applications, abrasive garnet is fed into the abrasive mixing chamber, which is part of the cutting head body, to produce a coherent and an extremely energetic abrasive jet stream.
To achieve these pressures, water is introduced into the unit by way of a booster pump and filter. This filtering process is very important as water must be clean before reaching ultra-high pressures in order to protect the high-pressure parts and provide a consistent cutting stream.
A water treatment system is sometimes needed to remove harmful minerals from the water. After being filtered, the water enters the high-pressure cylinder where it is pressurized to the desired level. The water is then carried to either an abrasive or straight-water cutting nozzle, depending on the application. The cutting nozzle can be stationary or integrated into motion equipment, which allows for intricate shapes and designs to be cut. Motion equipment can range from a simple cross-cutter to 2D systems and 3D machines as well as multiple axis robots. CAD/CAM software combined with CNC controllers translate drawings or commands into a digitally programmed path for the cutting head to follow. Cutting harder materials requires adding a fine mesh abrasive to the cutting stream. Various abrasive materials which can be used include olivine, garnet, and corundum with a particle size of between 50 to 120 mesh. When abrasive is required, TECHNI Waterjet provides an abrasive unit consisting primarily of an abrasive hopper, an abrasive feeder system, a pneumatically controlled on/off valve, and the abrasive cutting nozzle which contains the specialized mixing chamber. The abrasive is first stored in the pressurized hopper and travels to a metering assembly, which controls the amount of particles fed to the nozzle. The abrasive is then introduced into the cutting stream in a special mixing chamber within the abrasive cutting head. Abrasive cutting allows harder materials to be cut at a faster rate by accelerating the erosion process. After the cut, residual energy from the cutting stream is dissipated in a catcher tank, which stores the kerf material and spent abrasive.
Techni Waterjet Buy Here: https://mac-tech.com/equipment/waterjet-cutting/

Waterjet cutting machines are a versatile tool in industrial and commercial settings, allowing for precise cutting of a wide range of materials without altering their inherent properties. They utilize a high-pressure stream of water, often mixed with abrasive materials, to cut through substances such as metals, stone, and glass. This technology is particularly valuable for applications requiring intricate cuts and minimal thermal impact on the material.

Typical Cost Ranges

  • Pricing estimate (USD): Varies by configuration
  • Entry-level models: $60,000 to $100,000
  • Mid-range models: $100,000 to $200,000
  • High-end models: $200,000 and above
  • Operational costs: Consider water and abrasive media consumption
  • Maintenance costs: Routine servicing and part replacements

Key Selection Factors

  • Cutting accuracy: Precision levels, typically within ±0.005 inches
  • Material compatibility: Ability to cut metals, stone, glass, and composites
  • Table size: Determines the maximum material dimensions that can be accommodated
  • Pump pressure: Higher pressure increases cutting speed and efficiency
  • Software capability: Advanced software for intricate design and control
  • Ease of use: User interface and machine setup complexity
  • Support and training: Availability of manufacturer support and training resources

Buying Advice

  • Inspect the machine’s overall condition and wear
  • Verify the working condition of the high-pressure pump
  • Check for software updates and compatibility
  • Assess the condition of the cutting head and nozzle
  • Evaluate the control system for functionality and user-friendliness
  • Review maintenance records and service history
  • Confirm the availability of replacement parts
  • Test the machine’s cutting performance with various materials
  • Consider the manufacturer’s reputation and support services

FAQ

What materials can a waterjet cut? Waterjets can cut a wide range of materials, including metals, stone, glass, and composites.

How precise is waterjet cutting? Waterjet cutting typically offers precision levels within ±0.005 inches.

Does waterjet cutting affect material properties? No, waterjet cutting does not alter the inherent properties of the material due to its cold cutting process.

What are the operational costs of a waterjet machine? Operational costs include water and abrasive media consumption, as well as electricity and maintenance.

How often should a waterjet machine be serviced? Regular maintenance is recommended based on usage, typically every 1000 hours of operation.

Is training required to operate a waterjet machine? Yes, training is recommended to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Can waterjets cut thick materials? Yes, waterjets can cut through thick materials, with capabilities often exceeding several inches.

What is the lifespan of a waterjet cutting head? The lifespan varies depending on usage and maintenance but typically requires replacement after several hundred hours of operation.

Are there environmental considerations for using a waterjet? Yes, proper disposal of used abrasive materials and water is necessary to minimize environmental impact.

What is the lead time for installing a new waterjet machine? Lead times can vary, but installation typically takes several weeks from order to operation.

Waterjet Cutting

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