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- From The Fabricator
Etching 3-D images with an abrasive waterjet
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- May 7, 2013
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Currently used primarily in art and architecture, waterjet etching is beginning to make inroads into machining and fabricating shops. The textured gripper pictured in this article is an example of a 3-D etched part.
- From The Fabricator
2-D + 3-D = 5-axis waterjet cutting
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Jan 7, 2013
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Five-axis waterjet cutting is not something you see in every fabricating operation. But for some applications where tube or precise edge cutting might be required, it makes total sense.
- From The Fabricator
The trend toward larger abrasive waterjet cutting tables
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Dec 10, 2012
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Once custom-produced on a one-off basis for specific applications, large abrasive waterjet cutting tables have become part of many standard systems, thanks mostly to advanced linear-drive technology that makes the machines more affordable.
- From The Fabricator
Abrasive waterjets move into 3-D shapes, including pipe intersections
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Aug 21, 2012
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Used for many years to cut 2-D parts, abrasive waterjet technology has evolved into cutting complex 3-D shapes, including pipe intersections and saddles. Accessories and control software that make this possible can be retrofitted to existing systems.
- From The Fabricator
A primer on waterjet accessories
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Jan 17, 2011
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
For fabricators and metalworkers considering their first purchase of a waterjet, return on investment will be heavily influenced by features, options, and accessories that provide a match to their unique needs.Investigating and evaluating the latest alternatives will go a long way in boosting profitability.
- From The Fabricator
Waterjet bevel cutting made easy
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Mar 1, 2010
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Improvements in waterjet technology have made bevel cutting with these machines more suitable for a greater number of fabricating shops by simplifying programming and operation and reducing the need for trial-and-error setup.
- From The Fabricator
Newer linear-drive technology improves waterjet accuracy, reduces costs
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Dec 15, 2009
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Recent developments in linear-drive technology are designed to improve waterjet cutting accuracy and safety, while making high-precision machines more affordable. Find out more about this traction-drive system that has its roots in railroad locomotives.
- From The Fabricator
Green cutting with waterjets
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Oct 14, 2008
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Abrasive waterjets are powerful cutting tools. As is the case with all industrial machinery, waterjet machines have certain inherent hazards that go beyond the obvious cuts. Knowledge of these hazards and proper protective measures are necessary for safe operation. This article presents an overview of the hazards and ways to ensure safety.
- From The Fabricator
Safety in jet cutting
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Jul 15, 2008
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Abrasive waterjets are powerful cutting tools. As is the case with all industrial machinery, waterjet machines have certain inherent hazards that go beyond the obvious cuts. Knowledge of these hazards and proper protective measures are necessary for safe operation. This article presents an overview of the hazards and ways to ensure safety.
- From The Fabricator
Maximizing waterjet cutting profit
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Apr 15, 2008
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Achieving maximum profitability from your waterjet system requires knowing which operating methods are best-suited to your application. This article explores the costs associated with waterjet cutting and shows a method for maximizing the profit derived from the machine for various production scenarios. Specific examples are provided.
- From The Fabricator
Pumping up the waterjet power
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Dec 11, 2007
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Want to maximize your waterjet's performance? Among the options for doing so are adding horsepower to the pump, by either running at higher pressure, or using a larger or two nozzles. This article discusses the options and provides guidelines to help you decide what's best for your particular operation
- From The Fabricator
Jet cutting accessories
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Aug 8, 2007
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
The right accessories can help you make the most of your waterjet cutting system and prolong system life. Among the accessories discussed in this article are garnet feeders, removers, and recyclers; abrasive agitators; taper management tools; optional nozzles; piercing accessories; standoff controls; water treatment solutions; and material handling and support options.
- From The Fabricator
Recent developments in abrasive jet software
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Jun 12, 2007
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Software is an integral part of a waterjet cutting system. Advances in controller software compensate for common jet cutting errors, such as lag, striations, taper, and kerf; offer improvements in cutting functions; and reduce the time it takes to produce parts
- From The Fabricator
Economic considerations when purchasing a jet cutting machine
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Feb 13, 2007
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Thinking about purchasing a jet cutting system? Many factors should be considered before deciding which system to buy. This article discusses fixed and operating costs and productivity and provides the framework for making an intelligent buying decision.
- From The Fabricator
Machine components you can fabricate with an abrasive jet
- By Dr. John H. Olsen
- Oct 10, 2006
- Waterjet Cutting
- Article
Many machine components formerly made with conventional machining techniques now can be made easily and cost-effectively with abrasive waterjet cutting. This article discusses some of these components. It also gives examples of abrasive waterjet-produced signs and labels that can be used to enhance your products.
- Podcasting
- Podcast:
- The Fabricator Podcast
- Published:
- 03/05/2024
- Running Time:
- 65:35
After Ludlow Manufacturing Inc. (LMI) received The Fabricator's 2024 Industry Award, Todd Ludlow, founder and president of the...
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