10 Reasons Why an Abrasive Waterjet Should Be in Every Fabrication Shop

Metal fabrication is a crucial aspect of many industrial processes, and it requires precision, speed, and efficiency on every level and at every process. Although there are choices when cutting shapes from sheet metals and other materials an Abrasive Waterjet can be a highly effective and efficient solution. An abrasive waterjet is a machine that uses high-pressure water and abrasive particles to cut metal & many other materials. In this article, we will discuss 10 reasons why an abrasive waterjet should be in every metal fabrication shop, including yours.

1. Precision: An abrasive waterjet is capable of cutting metal with incredible precision, making it an ideal solution for tasks that require accuracy and intricate cuts. The high-pressure water stream is able to produce precise cuts without generating heat, which reduces the risk of warping or deformation of the metal. With a jet stream of approximately 1MMM it can make intricate and exacting cuts.

2. Versatility: One of the key benefits of an abrasive waterjet is its versatility. The machine can cut a wide range of materials, including metal, glass, ceramics, and even stone. Virtually any material you can touch can be cut, precisely on an Abrasive Waterjet Cutting Machine with little or no changes to the machines configuration. Added to that versatility is the capability to cut virtually any thickness of material you can fit under the nozzle with again, no changes to the configuration of the cutting system. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for metal fabrication shops that require the production of a diverse range of products from a diverse range of materials.

3. Speed: An abrasive waterjet is capable of cutting metal at a much faster pace than traditional cutting methods, such as manual cutting or even plasma cutting. This increased speed results in faster turnaround times and increased productivity, leading to increased profits for your business.

4. Efficiency: An abrasive waterjet is a highly efficient machine that requires minimal setup time and generates minimal waste. The machine can cut multiple pieces at once, reducing the time and effort required to produce each individual piece.

5. Increased Safety: Although working with metal can be dangerous, especially when traditional cutting methods are involved. An abrasive waterjet eliminates the need for manual labor and reduces the risk of injury by eliminating part handling during the shape cutting process. The machine is equipped with safety features such as emergency stop buttons, guarding and light curtains (when applicable) to protect the operator and ensure a safe working environment.

6. Environmentally Friendly: An abrasive waterjet is an environmentally friendly machine that generates minimal waste and emissions. The machine uses water and abrasive particles (typically Garnet), which are both non-toxic and biodegradable. This makes it a much more environmentally responsible choice compared to traditional cutting methods that generate harmful pollutants.

7. Cost-Effective: Investing in an abrasive waterjet may seem like a significant upfront cost, but in the long run, it can prove to be a cost-effective solution. Running alongside Laser, Punching & Plasma Systems it can easily fit into your current production solving many applications that these other processes simply do not do well. The machine eliminates the need for manual labor in shape cutting, reduces the risk of human error, and increases productivity, leading to increased profits and cost savings in the long run. Additionally, abrasive waterjets are designed to last for many years, providing a reliable and long-lasting investment.

8. No Heat-Affected Zone: Unlike traditional cutting methods that generate heat (HAZ) and cause warping or deformation of the metal, an abrasive waterjet produces no heat-affected zone. This means that the metal remains in its original condition, ensuring that the final product is of the highest quality. Many aircraft components have requirements for production to eliminate processes that may cause HAZ. This is critically important when working with materials that are flammable as well.

9. No Distortion: Because an abrasive waterjet cuts metal without generating heat, the process eliminates the risk of distortion or deformation of the metal. This is especially important for metal fabrication shops that produce precision parts and components that require strict tolerances.

10. No Residual Stress: An abrasive waterjet does not generate residual stress in the metal, making it an ideal solution for tasks that require stress-free cuts. 

An abrasive waterjet is a valuable investment for metal fabrication shops. It offers precision, versatility, speed, efficiency, increased safety, environmental responsibility, cost-effectiveness, no heat-affected zone, no distortion, and no residual stress. With its advanced technology and capabilities, an abrasive waterjet cutting machine is a valuable machine to add to your shops capabilities and to increase your overall capacities as well. At Southern Fabricating Machinery Sales we know all about Waterjets. Visit our other articles about WATERJETS or chop for a system now.