Dr. John H. Olsen

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.