Two Types of Waterjets

The two types of waterjets are the pure waterjet and the abrasive waterjet. Both have unique capabilities proven a benefit to industry.

Pure Waterjet
Pure waterjet is the original water cutting method. The first commercial applications were in the early to mid 1970s, and involved the cutting of corrugated cardboard. The largest uses for pure waterjet cutting are disposable diapers, tissue paper, and automotive interiors. In the cases of tissue paper and disposable diapers the waterjet process creates less moisture on the material than touching or breathing on it. Unplanned down time, common to other cutting processes, cost over $20,000 per hour in some diaper or tissue plants. The waterjet provides the 24 hour per day, 7 day per week, 360 day per year operation required by such applications – maintenance can be scheduled into production.

• Very thin stream (0.004 to 0.010 inch in diameter is the common range)
• Extremely detailed geometry
• Very little material loss due to cutting
• Non-heat cutting
• Cut very thick
• Cut very thin
• Usually cuts very quickly
• Able to cut soft, light materials (e.g., fiberglass insulation up to 24” thick)
• Extremely low cutting forces
• Simple fixturing
• 24 hour per day operation

How hot is the water in a Mach 3 waterjet stream? The water is warmed as it is accelerated to high speed. Frictional forces and other factors warm the stream as it exits the orifice. Inlet water temperature provides the starting point. Water temperature is then raised 2 to 3 degrees for each 1,000 psi. The quick answer is the Mach 3 jet is approximately 170 to 180 degrees F.