An Eye on… WARDJET Water Jets

Water jet cutting is a versatile and efficient method of cutting a wide variety of materials, from tinfoil to titanium, using a high-pressure stream of water mixed with and without abrasive particles. Water jet cutting offers many advantages over other cutting methods, such as:

• No heat-affected zone or thermal distortion
• Minimal material waste and environmental impact
• Ability to cut complex shapes and intricate details
• High accuracy and precision
• Compatibility with multiple materials and thicknesses

Suppose you are looking for a water jet cutting system that meets your specific needs and budget. In that case, you should consider WARDJET water jet cutting systems, a range of tailored solutions designed and manufactured by WARDJET, an Ohio-based company with over 30 years of experience in the industry. In the world of cutting-edge technology, WARDJET has established itself as a pioneer in water jet cutting systems. With a wide range of advanced and versatile solutions, WARDJET offers cutting-edge machinery designed to meet the diverse needs of various industries. This article delves into the world of WARDJET water jet systems, exploring their unique features, capabilities, and how they revolutionise precision cutting.

WARDJET water jet systems are renowned for their unparalleled precision and versatility in cutting a vast array of materials, such as metals, composites, stone, glass, plastics, and more. The systems utilise high-pressure water streams, often garnished with abrasive materials, to achieve cuts with extraordinary accuracy. With a comprehensive materials database, users can program parts  for precise cuts for intricate designs and complex shapes. One of the key features that set WARDJET apart from its competitors is the robust construction and thoughtful design of its water jet systems. Each component is carefully crafted to withstand the rigours of industrial applications, ensuring maximum durability and longevity. The gantry system provides stability and rigidity during cutting operations, contributing to the system’s high level of precision.

WARDJET acknowledges that different industries have unique cutting requirements. To address this, they offer a wide range of customisation options for their water jet systems. Customers can choose from various cutting heads, abrasive delivery systems, and control software, thereby tailoring the machines to their specific needs. This flexibility ensures that every customer gets the most suitable system for their application, whether it’s for small-scale fabrication or large industrial projects. Consequently, they are used in numerous industries, including:

• Aerospace: Precision cutting of aerospace-grade materials for aircraft components and parts.
• Automotive: Efficient cutting of automotive parts, panels, and prototypes.
• Architecture: Intricate shaping of stone and glass for architectural masterpieces.
• Manufacturing: High-volume production of metal and composite parts.
• Art and Design: Custom cutting for artistic installations and sculptures.
• Electronics: Precision cutting of electronic components and circuit boards.
• Marine: Cutting and shaping marine-grade materials for boat manufacturing.

Some of the key features that are included in the WARDJET series of systems include:

Industry-Leading Software
Incorporating state-of-the-art software, WARDJET water jet systems are user-friendly and efficient. The intuitive interface allows operators to create and modify cutting patterns easily. The advanced software supports various file formats, enabling seamless integration with design software, such as CAD/CAM applications. Additionally, the software optimises cutting paths, minimising material waste and maximising productivity.

High-Speed Cutting
WARDJET water jet systems are engineered for high-speed cutting without compromising on precision. With cutting speeds of up to 900 inches per minute, these machines can significantly reduce production time, making them a valuable asset for high-volume manufacturing. The ability to perform fast and accurate cuts allows businesses to meet tight deadlines and enhance their overall productivity.

Minimal Material Waste
Traditional cutting methods often result in substantial material wastage. WARDJET water jet systems, on the other hand, minimise material waste by utilising an optional advanced recirculation system. The system efficiently filters and recirculates water and abrasive materials, significantly reducing water consumption and abrasive usage. This eco-friendly approach not only reduces operating costs but also contributes to a more sustainable manufacturing process.

Safety Features
Safety is of utmost importance in any industrial setting. WARDJET water jet systems are equipped with multiple safety features to ensure the well-being of operators and the surrounding environment. The systems include safety interlocks, emergency stop buttons, and comprehensive guarding to prevent accidents and injuries during operation.

Remote Monitoring and Support
WARDJET water jet systems come with remote monitoring capabilities, allowing operators to keep track of machine performance and status in real-time. In case of any technical issues or questions, customers can access WARDJET’s dedicated support team for assistance. This proactive approach to customer support ensures minimal downtime and maximises machine uptime.

WARDJET water jets are available in different series, each with its own features and benefits. Here are some examples of the WARDJET water jet series:

A-Series
The A-Series is a compact and affordable water jet system that can fit on any shop floor. It is ideal for small to medium-sized projects that require high-quality cutting. The A-Series has a built-in water level control system that allows for super quiet underwater cutting.

M-Series
The M-Series is a modular water jet system that can handle any size or shape of material. It is ideal for heavy-duty projects that require high productivity and efficiency. The M-Series has a robust gantry design that can support multiple cutting heads and accessories. It also has a modular design that can be easily expanded or upgraded.

The X-Series  
The X-Series boasts an impressive capability of reaching traversal speeds of 900 inches per minute, due to its advanced drive system and the utilisation of a structural aluminium crossbeam. Moreover, the X-Series presents an opportunity for enhancement through the integration of a 5-Axis waterjet cutting head. This addition empowers users to craft intricate 3D shapes with finesse and offers adept management of taper angle control. By doing so, the machine’s adaptability in production is significantly amplified, ushering in a new realm of possibilities and versatility.

Water-Only Series
The Water-Only Series is a specialised water jet system that can cut soft or delicate materials without being abrasive. It is ideal for applications that require pure water cutting, such as rubber or foam. The water-only series machines are designed with purpose-built tanks utilising a stainless steel floor and optional wash-down system to efficiently remove kurf material. It also has a variety of nozzles and orifices that can optimise the cutting performance.

These are just some of the WARDJET water jet series you can choose from. WARDJET also offers custom water jet solutions that can be tailored to your specific requirements and challenges. Whether you need a small or large, simple or complex, standard or custom water jet system, WARDJET has the right solution for you.

In conclusion, WARDJET water jet systems stand at the forefront of precision cutting technology. With their unmatched precision, robust construction, and customization options, these machines cater to the diverse needs of various industries. The high-speed cutting capabilities, minimal material waste, and safety features make them an excellent investment for businesses aiming to enhance productivity and efficiency.

As technology continues to evolve, WARDJET remains committed to pushing the boundaries of water jet cutting systems, providing innovative solutions to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s manufacturing world.