Accuracy is the key to success in precision machining. With advancements in technology, there are now various cutting methods for precision machined parts, with waterjet cutting becoming a popular method for its versatility, precision, and clean cuts. But how accurate is precision waterjet cutting, and how does it compare to other methods?
Understanding the Process of Waterjet Cutting
Waterjet cutting is a versatile method that uses a high-pressure stream of water to cut through a wide range of materials, including metals, composites, stone, and glass. Waterjet cutting is a cold-cutting process. This means that the material being cut does not experience the same heat-affected zones as traditional cutting methods. As there is no heat, there is minimal distortion or deformation of the cut material.
How Accurate Is Waterjet Cutting for Precision Parts?
Precision & Tight Tolerances
Waterjet cutting provides precise cuts with minimal tolerances, making it suitable for high-volume precision machined parts. The technology ensures that the parts are cut to exact specifications, resulting in accurate and consistent results. Waterjet cutting can achieve tolerances as tight as ±0.003 inches. The accuracy of the cut is determined by the speed of the water jet and the size of the orifice through which the water flows. This makes waterjet cutting more accurate than other traditional machining methods, such as plasma cutting or saw cutting.
Versatility
Waterjet cutting is compatible with a wide range of materials, including metals, composites, and plastics. Waterjet cutting can also cut a wide range of material thicknesses, making it the perfect solution for a range of products. This versatility makes it suitable for various industries and applications, providing flexibility for high-volume precision machining requirements.
Waterjet cutting is commonly used in applications such as aerospace, automotive, and medical industries, where intricate parts and tight tolerances are a requirement. These industries use waterjet cutting to cut complex shapes in materials, such as titanium and aluminum, for important machined pieces including aircraft parts, engines, car interiors and exteriors, surgical instruments, and implants.
Efficiency & Speed
Waterjet cutting machines can operate 24/7, which leads to quicker turn-around times, and minimal to no burrs are found in the material once the waterjet process is completed. This efficiency benefits high-volume production, as it saves time and reduces material waste.
With advancements in technology, waterjet cutting machines can also achieve high cutting speeds. They can cut at speeds of up to 600 inches per minute on optimal materials and thicknesses, enabling faster production for high-volume precision machined parts.
The Staub Advantage: Waterjet Cutting for Precision Parts
Staub Precision Machine uses a state-of-the-art “lights off” software system to program our waterjet cutting machines. This software allows us to program complex shapes and contours, ensuring that each cut is precise and accurate. Once the part is designed to your specific needs, waterjet machines can be easily programmed to produce high-quality and precise parts with tight tolerances. Our waterjet machines also have a 5-axis cutting head, which allows us to cut at different angles, making it easier to achieve the desired shape.
Beyond this, our team of experts can advise on the design and implementation process to ensure the most efficient and high-quality production of your precision parts. Whether you need a single part or a large production run, we have the solution. Contact us today at Staub Precision Machine to get started.