Development trends of three‐dimensional waterjet cutting systems

Abstract

The past five years have seen a significant improvement in the reliability and the acceptance of two‐dimensional abrasive waterjet (AWJ) cutting systems. Across all of the major industrial countries in Europe, one can now find any number of job shops or custom cutting centres offering AWJ cut parts. Three‐dimensional AWJ cutting systems were first introduced into the aerospace industry. The AWJ machines used to cut aerospace parts were mainly limited to large‐frame, cost‐intensive five‐axes units dedicated to the aerospace industry. Recently, a select few of the well‐established users of two‐dimensional AWJ cutting systems have acquired three‐dimensional AWJ cutting systems. New, lower‐priced systems combined with innovative configuration options, improved programming techniques, advanced automation and accuracy have taken three‐dimensional AWJ to another level. Discusses the recent developments in three‐dimensional AWJ systems.

Citation

Alkire, T.D. (1997), "Development trends of three‐dimensional waterjet cutting systems", Industrial Robot, Vol. 24 No. 1, pp. 24-29. https://doi.org/10.1108/01439919710162629