WATERJET AND PLASMA ON ONE CUTTING MACHINE
26 September 2000 - ESAB Group

A novel cutting machine from ESAB Automation combines the benefits of two distinctly different cutting processes. Based on the Hydrocut waterjet cutting machine, the addition of plasma cutting torches will allow companies to use the different processes according to the material they wish to cut and the results they wish to achieve.

Materials such as brass, copper, aluminium, glass, wood and plastic composites are ideally cut using the high pressure waterjet process. It is a slow and accurate cutting technique that provides high quality burr-free edges and a minimal heat affected zone. As no heat penetrates into the area surrounding the cut, there is no distortion and no change to the structure of the material.

Conversely, where high cutting speeds and productivity levels are demanded, plasma cutting heads provide a very cost-effective means of cutting all conductive materials. Subject to material thickness, speeds of 10 metres / minute are achievable.

The plasma process and the waterjet cutting process can be combined to cut a single piece of sheet metal. Plasma, with its high speed, is ideally suited to all external edge cutting where accuracy is not a priority. Internal dimensions which require accuracy can then be machined using the precision waterjet process.

Companies that can benefit from this novel cutting solution include any structural steel fabricator combining different materials within a fabrication. Alternatively, they may be using the same material where different degrees of finished accuracy are required but where high speed production is essential.

http://www.esab.co.uk

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