Near-Net waterjet cutting
A Successful Way to Save Machining Time
High-Definition waterjet cutting is ideal, in many cases, for material removal and near-net cutting of metal components. waterjet processing cuts through materials like titanium and stainless steel faster than conventional machining methods. Parts are often blanked out by waterjet processing before undergoing final CNC machining. LAI's waterjet stations cut material such as titanium up to 18" thick.
Case Study: Near-Net waterjet Cutting
of Stainless Steel
An waterjet station cuts stainless steel blanks at LAI Midwest. Near-net cutting of the parts saves overall machining time.
The waterjet cuts through 2-3/4" stainless steel in a tightly nested pattern to minimize material waste.
A close-up shot shows the waterjet stream cutting through the stainless steel.
The waterjet cut blanks are later milled to final dimensions.
Waterjet cuts Inconel rings
Abrasive waterjet is a cost-effective method for rough cutting or near-net cutting of components that are later processed by conventional CNC machining to final dimensions. waterjet cuts through difficult-to-machine materials such as Inconel and titanium faster than other machining methods and uses a narrow cutting kerf, minimizing material waste. Since waterjet processing is a non-contact machining method, tool replacement is eliminated.
An abrasive waterjet cuts a 5-inch diameter ring from Inconel 625.
The waterjet cuts the arc in the 0.625-inch thick material.
The waterjet process is used to cut the part to near-net shape to save time and money. The part is later machined to final dimension by CNC machining to be used as a containment ring in power generation equipment.
Video clip: waterjet cuts Inconel ring.