Computer numerical control (CNC) has been incorporated into a variety of new technologies and machinery. One type of machine that is utilized with computer numerical control is known as a CNC water jet cutter.
A CNC water jet cutter is an industrial-strength tool that has the capability to cut various materials by using an extremely high-pressure jet of water. While water can be used alone, it is often mixed with an abrasive substance to cut harder materials, such as metal or granite. Additives like aluminum oxide and garnet may be mixed with the water itself to improve the cutting process. Pure water jet cutters that do not contain an abrasive substance or additive are designed to cut softer materials like rubber or wood.
How CNC Water Jet Cutters Function
A CNC water jet cutter typically connects to a high-pressure water pump. This is where the water is ejected from the pump’s nozzle. It cuts right through the material being manipulated by spraying it with the jet of water at a very high speed. The pressure of the water and the speed at which it is sprayed against the material both play a role in the cutting process.
When the fabrication of machine parts is done, the process of water jet cutting is often used rather than other methods. This is because some materials that must be cut are very sensitive to high temperatures associated with other cutting techniques in production processes. Cutting, shaping, and reaming are just a few of the primary processes through which water jet cutting is the best method. Industries such as aerospace and mining commonly use CNC water jet cutters.
The Bottom Line on CNC Water Jet Cutters
Much like other CNC machines, CNC water jet cutters are quite effective at crafting precise materials. The nice benefit to these machines is that they offer the water jet cutting method instead of using high temperatures, which have the potential to harm the intrinsic properties of a material piece. With these high-pressure water jets, these cutters can work more efficiently than others due to this unique type of cutting process. CNC water jet cutters reduce many of the potential issues involved in utilizing heat, so they may be a fantastic alternative to cutting materials that you can’t cut as precisely when utilizing other devices. As with all current CNC machines, expect to find even more effective CNC water jet cutters on the market as technology advances over time.