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What Are the Main Components of a Waterjet Cutting System?
What Are the Main Components of a Waterjet Cutting System?
1. High-Pressure Pump
The high-pressure pump is the heart of a Waterjet Cutting Machine. It generates the pressurized water, which can reach up to 90,000 psi (6,200 bar). There are two main types of pumps:
Intensifier-Pump-Titanium-Abrasive-Water-Jet-Cutting-Machines-p.html target='_blank'>Intensifier Pump: Uses hydraulic pressure to increase water pressure, ideal for heavy-duty cutting.
Direct Drive Pump: Uses an electric motor to pressurize water, offering energy efficiency for lighter applications.
2. Cutting Head & Nozzle
The cutting head is where the high-pressure water exits through a nozzle to cut materials. In abrasive waterjet cutting, an abrasive mixing chamber adds materials like garnet to enhance cutting power.
Pure Waterjet Cutting Head: Used for soft materials like rubber and foam.
Abrasive Waterjet Cutting Head: Used for hard materials like metal, stone, and glass.
3. Abrasive Delivery System
For abrasive waterjet cutting, an abrasive hopper and feeder supply materials like garnet, which mix with water to increase cutting power. This system ensures a steady flow of abrasives for consistent cutting performance.
4. Motion Control System (CNC Controller)
The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) system controls the movement of the cutting head with high precision. It enables custom shapes, complex cuts, and multi-axis movement, making it essential for automated and accurate cutting.
3-Axis System: Ideal for flat surface cutting.
5-Axis System: Allows for angled and 3D cutting, expanding cutting possibilities.
5. Worktable & Cutting Bed
The worktable is the platform where the material is placed during cutting. It includes:
Slat or Grated Table Design: Supports the material while allowing water and debris to drain.
Water Tank: Absorbs energy and reduces noise.
Some systems have submerged cutting to further minimize noise and splash.
6. Water Filtration & Recycling System
To improve efficiency and reduce water consumption, many waterjet cutting machines include a filtration system to remove impurities and recycle water. This helps in cost savings and supports eco-friendly cutting processes.
Conclusion
A waterjet cutting system consists of six main components: the high-pressure pump, cutting head, abrasive delivery system, motion control (CNC), worktable, and water filtration system. Each part plays a vital role in ensuring precise, efficient, and high-quality cutting. Understanding these components can help in choosing the right waterjet cutting machine for industrial, manufacturing, or custom cutting applications.
