At Australian Waterjet Cutting we mostly cut metal for custom manufacturing and product development for other businesses. But we also do some R&D of our own.
We tested 8 materials and here’s what we can and can’t cut. Some of them might surprise you!
What is waterjet cutting?
Waterjet cutting is a high-pressure jet of water with an added abrasive. It’s similar to laser cutting but most importantly WITHOUT heat affected zones (HAZs). Check out the full list of differences between laser and waterjet cutting here or find out all it’s wonderful benefits in this blog.
What materials can be cut?
Waterjet cutting’s versatility is unrivalled and a real stand out option for your dissection needs. Here’s what it can cut:
1. Metal
Waterjet cutting doesn’t produce HAZs, and its why waterjet cutting produces silky, smooth edges and maintains the integrity of the material. It’s the lack of HAZs that makes waterjet cutting perfect for non-destructive testing!
Waterjet cutting is perfect for:
- Titanium
- Steel
- Bisalloy
- Inconel
- Brass
2. Plastic and flammable materials
Unlike laser, waterjet machines can cut flammable materials such as magnesium. With waterjet, dangerous materials can be cut safely, simply, and efficiently.
3. Soft materials
Like a hot knife through butter, waterjet cutting can cut through soft materials such as:
- Foam
- Rubber
- Leather
- Vinyl
- Cork
4. Stalactite and stone
Even soft, delicate limestone stalactites are a breeze for water jet cutting.
Other stone materials such as granite, marble and even concrete also work well.
5. Golf balls
Golf balls are made from foam and resin, both of which were light work for our waterjet machine. “Slicing the ball” may be bad technique, but waterjet cutting scores an ace, nonetheless.
What materials are not suitable or have poor outcomes?
We’re glad you asked! Other than diamond, what materials don’t we cut and why?
6. Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is designed to shatter when pressure is applied and thus not a suitable candidate for waterjet cutting. By cutting with our machines the glass becomes highly unstable.
7. Wood
Certain types of wood are affected by water either by staining or damage such as MDF non-waterproof board.
However, harder wood products such as Cooktown Iron Wood or other Hardwoods can be completely unaffected and produce a stunning outcome.
8. Hard materials over 200mm
Laser can typically only cut through 25mm, whereas our waterjet’s ability is limited at 200mm of metal. While we can cut past 200mm, the outcomes are poor (due to speed), and consequently not cost effective.
Don’t see your material on this list? Ask one of our specialists
The materials waterjet can cut is extensive, and we can’t fit it all into one blog post, so if you’re curious about a material we haven’t mentioned, help is only a call away.
Contact us today to discuss how you can use waterjet cutting!
