Wasserstrahltechnik

Wasserstrahltechnik, also known as waterjet cutting, is a machining and cutting process that uses a high-pressure stream of water to cut a wide variety of materials. The water is pressurized to extremely high levels, typically between 30,000 and 60,000 psi, and then forced through a small nozzle, creating a very fine and powerful jet. This jet can cut through materials like metal, stone, plastic, glass, and composites.

The process can be performed with pure water or with an abrasive material mixed into the water stream. Pure waterjet cutting is often used for softer materials like foam, rubber, or paper, as it can cut without damaging the material's integrity. For harder materials such as steel or granite, an abrasive, like garnet, is added to the waterjet. The abrasive particles erode the material as the high-pressure water carries them, allowing for effective cutting of dense substances.

Advantages of Wasserstrahltechnik include its versatility, as it can cut almost any material. It is also a non-thermal process, meaning it does not generate heat, which prevents material distortion or changes in its properties. This makes it ideal for heat-sensitive materials. Furthermore, the kerf, or width of the cut, is very narrow, allowing for intricate shapes and tight tolerances. The process also produces minimal waste and is environmentally friendly, as the primary medium is water. Common applications include manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and art.