Instead of using traditional cutting methods, manufacturers can convert to a
more productive way to cut complex shapes or difficult materials: plasma arc,
laser, and waterjet cutting.
Plasma arc cutting , primarily used with metals, provides high speed at great thicknesses. Plasma can cause a wide kerf and heat distortion and generally cannot achieve the tolerances capable with waterjet systems.
Laser cutting of metals and composites achieves high speeds with minimal kerfs on thin materials. Lasers can cause heat distortion, delamination of composites, and even toxic fumes on epoxy-based materials.
Waterjets are appropriate when accurate cuts with minimal kerfs and a finished quality edge are needed and when no heat distortion or HAZ is required.
Due to the power of the jet, a waterjet cuts all the way through a workpiece, making closed angles and enclosed sections difficult to cut.
