Speed and Quality

How water pressure, abrasive quantity and cutting speed all influence the cutting process

As the water pressure increases, the cutting depth achievable increases proportionally. The quality of the cut surface also increases, however, so does the wear and tear of the seals in the pump. Pressure changes also result in wear and tear on the seals, so if the material needs to be pierced at a lower pressure e.g. glass and laminates, then all the piercing operations should be carried out prior to increasing the pressure for cutting operations.

Abrasive quantity must be optimum for the material to be cut. If the abrasive flow is not high enough then the cutting power of the water jet will not be sufficient. If the abrasive flow is too high, then the water jet becomes sluggish and reduces the cutting power.

The cutting depth attainable decreases with increasing cutting speed. The quality of the cut surface also decreases with an increase in cutting speed. The pressure and abrasive quantity are set for a particular material to ensure optimum piercing and cutting power. The cutting speed i.e. the speed in m/min at which the cutting head is driven, is varied depending on the thickness of material being cut and the quality of cut required.

Speed and quality continued.