Water jet technology has made significant strides in the past decade. With its unique capabilities, it has quickly become one of the most versatile cutting methods available to manufacturers. What many may not know about the water jet is that there are different styles of cutting that can be utilized. Let’s explore some of the differences between abrasive and pure water jet cutting.

Abrasive vs. Pure – What’s the difference?

Most water jets rely on an abrasive medium (think sand) mixed with water to cut through raw material. The most common type of abrasive is garnet, which comes in a variety of strains, and ranges from a very fine consistency to coarser options. The type of garnet used will play a factor in determining the speed at which the water jet can cut, as well as the quality and surface finish left on the cut components. 

Pure water jet cutting simply refers to cutting without abrasive. This process is still highly effective but is far more limited in its application. Because this method does not have the added cutting power provided by an abrasive, a water-only approach is best reserved for light engraving or cutting through softer material like rubber, wood, fabrics, etc. 

Materials

Abrasive water jet cutting is by far the more popular and effective method. By using a garnet slurry to quickly erode the material, the abrasive water jet can cut through nearly any material regardless of hardness, density or thickness. Machine settings can be adjusted so that the abrasive water jet can also cut through softer or thinner stock without sacrificing accuracy or quality. With the capability to cut through .030” thick plastic on one job and 10” thick stainless on the next, it quickly becomes clear why the abrasive water jet has become so popular in the manufacturing environment. 

Pure water jet cutting has become a staple in the food industry, where health and safety regulations limit many other cutting methods. Relying on water only, the pure water jet is used to cut through meats, fish, bread, vegetables, frozen foods, and even desserts. Some gourmet cake designers rely on the fine cuts and high precision of a water jet to produce culinary works of art.