Vesileikkauksella

Vesileikkauksella, also known as waterjet cutting, is an industrial machining process that cuts materials using a very high-pressure stream of water. In some applications, an abrasive substance is added to the water to enhance the cutting power. The water is pressurized to pressures typically between 30,000 and 60,000 psi (200 to 400 MPa), and sometimes even higher. This pressurized water is then forced through a small nozzle, creating a focused stream. The abrasive material, if used, is mixed with the water in a cutting head just before it exits the nozzle.

This process is effective for cutting a wide variety of materials, including metals, plastics, composites, stone, glass, and ceramics. One of the primary advantages of waterjet cutting is that it is a cold cutting process, meaning it does not create a heat-affected zone (HAZ) in the material being cut. This is crucial for materials that are sensitive to heat or could be damaged by the thermal stresses of other cutting methods like laser or plasma cutting. The abrasive waterjet is particularly good for thicker and harder materials.

The precision of waterjet cutting is also a significant advantage. The narrow kerf (width of the cut) allows for intricate shapes and tight tolerances. The process can achieve a high degree of accuracy and surface finish, often reducing the need for secondary finishing operations. Waterjet cutting is employed across numerous industries, including aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, stone fabrication, and art. Its versatility and ability to cut a broad spectrum of materials without thermal distortion make it a valuable tool in modern fabrication.