HochdruckWassernebelSysteme

Hochdruckwasserstrahlschneiden, often abbreviated as HDW or simply referred to as waterjet cutting, is a subtractive manufacturing process that utilizes a high-pressure stream of water to cut a wide range of materials. This technology is characterized by the use of an extremely fine nozzle, typically made of sapphire or diamond, through which water is propelled at pressures exceeding 30,000 psi. In many applications, an abrasive substance, such as garnet or aluminum oxide, is introduced into the water stream to enhance its cutting power.

The process begins with a pump that pressurizes water. This high-pressure water is then directed through the nozzle, creating a focused, high-velocity jet. The kinetic energy of the water stream erodes the material it strikes. When abrasives are used, they are entrained in the water and act as tiny cutting tools, effectively grinding away the material. The cutting head, which houses the nozzle, is typically controlled by a computer numerically controlled (CNC) system, allowing for precise movement and the creation of complex shapes.

Hochdruckwasserstrahlschneiden offers several advantages. It is a cold cutting process, meaning it does not generate significant heat, thus avoiding thermal distortion or changes in the material's properties. This makes it ideal for cutting heat-sensitive materials like plastics, rubber, and composites. It can cut through very thick materials, and the kerf width, the width of the cut, is relatively narrow. The process is also environmentally friendly, as the primary medium is water, and abrasives are generally inert. Applications for HDW are diverse, including aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, stone and metal fabrication, and food processing.