Vízvágók

Vízvágók, also known as water cutters or waterjet cutters, are tools that use a high-pressure stream of water to cut through a variety of materials. This technology can be employed with or without an abrasive substance mixed into the water. The water stream is typically propelled at speeds up to Mach 2, or twice the speed of sound, creating a powerful cutting force.

The process involves a pump that pressurizes water to very high levels, often between 20,000 and 60,000 psi. This pressurized water is then directed through a small orifice, usually made of diamond or sapphire, which focuses the stream into a precise, narrow jet. For cutting harder materials, abrasive particles such as garnet are introduced into the water stream just before it exits the nozzle. This abrasive-enhanced waterjet cutting is more effective for materials like metal, stone, and thick plastics.

Waterjet cutting offers several advantages. It is a cold cutting process, meaning it does not generate heat-affected zones, which is crucial for materials that can be damaged by heat, such as certain metals or composites. It is also a highly versatile cutting method, capable of cutting almost any material, including glass, rubber, foam, and even food products. The precision of waterjet cutting allows for intricate designs and tight tolerances. Furthermore, it is an environmentally friendly process as it does not produce harmful fumes or dust.