Water Cutting Steel

Even though water cutting steel has been around for a few years, many are unfamiliar with the process. At first exposure, it seems almost like a ridiculous idea. After all, steel structures outside can, if properly finished, be rained on for years without showing deterioration. Yet, water is supposed to be able to cut steel?

                       

The answer to how it works lies in the way the water hits the steel. In a waterjet machine, the water is delivered in the form of a jet at exceptionally high pressures. This lets it work better than a stamping machine for cutting through the steel piece.

                       

Originally, water cutting steel was done to create flat pieces. However, it has now been upgraded to be able to cut from five or more different axes, allowing for the creation of intricate 3D parts. Various pressures are used to control the cutting depth.