Waterjet Cutting
A cost-effective no-die converting option, waterjet cutting is a process that produces two-dimensional shapes by cutting sheet material using a high-pressure stream of water mixed with garnet abrasive. Waterjet cutting is ideal for cutting:
- Thick foam
- Plastic
- Rubber
- Anything heat sensitive
Unlike laser cutting, the waterjet cutting process can cut virtually any material regardless of the surface quality.
Waterjet Cutting Advantages
The waterjet cutting process is gaining popularity for component manufacturing due to a variety of advantages the process offers:
- Precise accuracy and repeatability
- Ability to cut thick materials
- Ability to cut plastics and high durometer materials
- Increased efficiency with no tooling costs
- Faster turnaround
Laminating Waterjet Cut Materials
Laminating is the process of applying an additional layer to materials before or after the die-cutting process. Typically, Thrust Industries uses the laminating process to apply an adhesive to a substrate material, such as plastic film, rubber, or foam before waterjet cutting the component from that material. An adhesive, PSA or tape, can be added to one side or both sides of a material, with secondary liners where needed.
Our laminated materials are often used in industries like packaging, electronics, automotive, and signage, where precision, durability, and aesthetic appeal are important. The combination of laminating and die-cutting allows for the creation of high-quality, customized components that look great, meet industry standards, and perform reliably in any environment.
Mitsubishi Waterjet Cutting System
Thrust is able to cut custom shapes and components with an unsurpassed level of accuracy and reliability with our precision Mitsubishi waterjet cutting system. The system’s water jets are pressurized up to 50,000 to 60,000 psi and travel over 2.5 times the speed of sound. The stream is released through a precision orifice as small as 0.003 inches in diameter, and quickly cuts through a wide range of materials with accuracy to fit the tightest tolerances.
Thrust Is Your Source for Waterjet Cutting
If you are in need of waterjet cutting services, the Thrust team is ready to meet your project needs. We always have a wide range of materials in stock and use our state-of-the-art waterjet cutting system to produce the highest quality product quickly and cost-effectively. We know that our customers have specific needs and ideas, so we are consistently adapting and growing to complete each project. We work with manufacturers, developers, retail chains, inventors, and more. We would love to work with you too.
Contact us today or call us at 1-800-467-6730 to discuss your waterjet cutting requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterjet Cutting
We can cut a wide range of materials, including plastics, rubber, foam, PSA (pressure sensitive adhesives), and composites. Materials that are heat-sensitive or difficult to cut with traditional methods are ideal candidates for waterjet cutting.
Waterjet cutting is highly precise, capable of cutting intricate designs with tolerances as tight as ±0.003 inches. Unlike laser cutting, it does not introduce heat into the material, preventing thermal distortion.
This depends on the material type and desired cut quality. The ability to cut thicker materials is one of the advantages of waterjet technology. Give us a call at (812) 437-3643 and we can talk deeper about your project questions!
Waterjet cutting does not generate heat, which ensures that heat-sensitive materials, such as foam or rubber, retain their structural integrity without warping or melting during the cutting process.
Turnaround time varies depending on the complexity and size of the project, but Thrust Industries prides itself on quick processing times. Rush services may also be available for urgent projects.
We typically charge based on material type, thickness, and complexity of the cut. Unlike other methods, there are no tooling fees. Waterjet cutting also minimizes material waste which in turn saves money. This makes waterjet cutting a cost-effective solution.
Waterjet cutting is ideal for industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and manufacturing, where precision cutting of various materials is required without the risk of heat damage. It’s also useful for custom fabrication and prototyping.