Waterjet vs. Laser Cutting: Achieving Higher Efficiency in Sheet Metal Fabrication Services
Waterjet and laser cutting are two of the most common methods for precision metal cutting used in today’s aerospace fabrication industry and beyond.
Both are high-tech, high-speed cutting processes that offer outstanding accuracy and repeatability. So why should you choose one method over the other? In this article, we hope to answer that question with a brief guide to waterjet vs. laser cutting services, including the unique advantages and applications of each process.
At Snowline, our contract manufacturing capabilities integrate custom sheet metal fabrication and many other precision metalworking capabilities. We utilize both waterjet and laser cutting machines in order to offer our customers the highest level of efficiency and flexibility possible.
The Waterjet and Laser Cutting Process Compared
Waterjet cutting (sometimes referred to as waterjet machining) uses a high-pressure stream of water mixed with abrasive particles as the cutting agent. It’s an extremely flexible process with the ability to cut through a wide range of materials on a single machine. Material versatility adds to the efficiency of waterjet cutting services, as the process is seamlessly compatible with most metals, plastics, composites, and even wood.
However, if absolute precision and even higher-speed efficiency are required, laser cutting services may be the ideal solution. Custom laser cutting projects are also typically much easier to set up than a waterjet machine, therefore they can actually be cheaper for quick runs or small batches. Basically, when it comes to prototyping, very low volumes, and certain specialized metals, laser cutting is often the more economical fabrication method – in addition to its other benefits.
The Adavantages of Waterjet Cutting Services:
Unlike laser cutters, waterjet machines minimize the heat-affected zone on the workpiece which reduces the risk of material distortion and deformation.
Waterjet is therefore the optimum precision cutting method for materials that are flammable or otherwise highly sensitive to heat.
Waterjet also does not produce hazardous vapors and other byproducts. Laser cutting machines, on the other hand, vaporize the material and therefore typically require complicated ventilation systems.
Typically, waterjet cuts achieve a smooth, burr-free edge, while laser cuts tend to be rougher, potentially requiring additional post-processing.
Waterjet is a suitable method for cutting extremely thick materials and metal plates, typically up to ~300mm in thickness.
Waterjet offers high precision to produce intricate designs and complex components – though generally not quite as precise or repeatable as laser cutting.
The Adavantages of Laser Cutting Services:
As mentioned above, laser cutting services offer even more accuracy and precision compared to waterjet, making the process suitable for even the most complex, close-tolerance aerospace parts.
Laser cutters offer higher speed than waterjet for most materials, maximizing throughput and capacity.
Produces less waste byproducts than waterjet cutting.
Can easily cut through metals typically up to ~30mm – extremely capable, but much less thick than waterjet machines.
Custom Waterjet and Laser Cutting Services for Precision Sheet Metal Fabrication
Since 1966 Snowline has served as one the nation’s leading aerospace sheet metal fabrication companies offering precision metalworking solutions. Our capabilities include both waterjet and laser cutting services in order to offer our customers the highest level of efficiency and flexibility possible. Based out of Sacramento, California, we have served leading aerospace customers and other state-of-the-art industries throughout the West Coast and beyond.