Waterjet cutting is a non-contact cutting technology that utilizes high-pressure water flow and abrasive flow to impact the surface of the workpiece, thereby achieving cutting. Compared to traditional mechanical cutting and thermal cutting techniques, waterjet cutting has many advantages such as no generation of thermal stress and deformation, no impact on the material's chemical properties, wide applicability, and environmental friendliness. However, waterjet cutting also has some disadvantages, such as slower cutting speed, faster wear and tear, and higher costs. Addressing the issue of surface flatness of waterjet cutting, the following insights are provided by waterjet cutting manufacturers.
The surface flatness of waterjet cutting is influenced by many factors. Firstly, the properties and thickness of the cutting material are important factors affecting the surface flatness. For soft materials such as rubber, foam plastics, and paper, waterjet cutting can achieve good cutting quality and flatness. However, for hard materials such as metals and ceramics, high hardness leads to greater stress and deformation during cutting, resulting in an uneven cutting surface. Additionally, the thickness of the material also affects the surface flatness. Generally, the thicker the material cut by waterjet, the more difficult it is to ensure surface flatness.
Secondly, the process parameters of waterjet cutting are also crucial factors affecting surface flatness. Process parameters include cutting speed, water pressure, abrasive flow rate, cutting distance, etc. Insufficient water pressure or inadequate abrasive flow rate during cutting may result in large particles or burrs on the cutting surface. Moreover, cutting speed is also one of the key factors affecting surface flatness. If the cutting speed is too slow, it may leave obvious marks on the material surface due to water impact, thereby affecting surface flatness.
The process equipment and cutting head of waterjet cutting also have a significant impact on surface flatness. Generally, high-precision cutting heads and stable processing equipment can ensure surface flatness. Additionally, it is important to maintain the vertical direction of the cutting head during the cutting process to achieve better processing results.