Vattenstråleteknik

Vattenstråleteknik, known in English as waterjet cutting, is a machining and cutting process that utilizes a high-pressure stream of water to cut through a wide variety of materials. The water is typically propelled at extremely high pressures, often exceeding 30,000 PSI and sometimes reaching over 60,000 PSI. This high-pressure stream is focused through a small nozzle, creating a thin, precise jet.

In many applications, an abrasive material is added to the water stream to enhance its cutting ability, particularly for harder materials like metals, stone, and ceramics. This is known as abrasive waterjet cutting. For softer materials like plastics, foam, or rubber, pure waterjet cutting (without abrasives) is often sufficient. The technology offers several advantages, including the ability to cut complex shapes with high accuracy and minimal heat-affected zones, which can be crucial for heat-sensitive materials. It also generates very little dust or fumes compared to other cutting methods, making it an environmentally friendly option. The process is versatile and used in industries ranging from aerospace and automotive to food processing and art.