Waterjet Cutting Service
Resolute Precision Manufacturing coordinates abrasive Waterjet Cutting Service for plate profiling, blank preparation, and contour cutting of materials that are difficult or impractical to cut by conventional methods. Waterjet cutting can process hardened steel, titanium, ceramic, glass, composites, and thick plate without introducing heat or creating a heat-affected zone (HAZ). We manage the process and deliver cut parts from a single purchase order. Request a QuoteWhat Abrasive Waterjet Cutting Achieves
Our Waterjet Cutting Service uses a high-pressure stream of water mixed with fine garnet abrasive particles to erode material along a programmed cutting path. The process is computer-controlled from a 2D DXF or DWG cutting file, enabling complex profile cutting with dimensional accuracy of ±0.005 inch on most materials and thicknesses.
The defining characteristic of waterjet cutting is the absence of heat. Unlike laser cutting, plasma cutting, or thermal cutting processes, waterjet introduces no significant thermal energy into the workpiece. There is no heat-affected zone, no material property change caused by heat, and no metallurgical damage associated with thermal cutting. For heat-sensitive materials, hardened materials, and composites where heat input is problematic, waterjet can be an effective cutting method.
When Waterjet is the Right Process
Waterjet cutting is appropriate in these circumstances:
Cutting thick plate material — Steel plate from 1″ to 6″ thick where laser or plasma cutting may not provide the required edge quality.
Cutting hardened material — Waterjet can cut hardened tool steel and carbide without the thermal distortion associated with conventional thermal cutting.
Cutting heat-sensitive material — Titanium, Inconel, and aerospace alloys where avoiding a heat-affected zone is important.
Cutting composites and non-metals — Carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar, ceramic, glass, and rubber.
Profile blanks for subsequent machining — Near-net-shape plates cut to profile before CNC milling to final dimensions.
Complex 2D contour cutting — Intricate profiles and shapes that may be costly or inefficient to mill from solid material.
Specifications
| Process | Abrasive waterjet cutting using garnet abrasive in a high-pressure water stream |
| Materials | Any material, including steel, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, aluminum, carbide, ceramic, glass, and composites |
| Maximum Thickness | Up to 6″ steel and aluminum; thicker sections evaluated on a case-by-case basis |
| Dimensional Accuracy | ±0.005″ on standard cuts; ±0.003″ on precision cuts with appropriate feed rates |
| Cut Edge | No heat-affected zone; slight kerf taper of 0.5° to 2°, depending on material thickness and cutting speed |
| Minimum Inside Radius | Approximately half the kerf width; typically 0.020″–0.030″ |
| Input Format | 2D DXF or DWG cutting files; cutting files can also be generated from PDF drawings |
| Documentation | Dimensional inspection reports available upon request |
| ISO | ISO 9001:2015; outside suppliers qualified under RPM’s approved vendor procedures |
Waterjet as Part of a Complete Machining Program
Waterjet cutting is most valuable as the first step in a multi-operation machining program. Cutting a near-net-shape blank from plate before CNC milling can reduce material waste, minimize milling machine time, and lower cost per part particularly for irregular profiles that would require excessive machining from a rectangular billet.
Common sequences we coordinate include:
Waterjet profile cut from plate → CNC mill to final dimensions and tolerances
Waterjet cut from hardened plate → finish grind to final dimensions
Waterjet cut stainless sheet blanks → form and weld into fabricated assemblies
Waterjet cut composite panels → CNC drill mounting holes to final position
By coordinating Waterjet Cutting Service with CNC machining and other outside processing, Resolute Precision Manufacturing can help simplify sourcing for multi-operation parts while maintaining a single point of contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is waterjet cutting accurate enough for precision parts?
Waterjet cutting achieves ±0.005″ dimensional accuracy on standard cuts appropriate for blanks and near-net profiles that will be finish-machined. For parts requiring ±0.001″ or better, waterjet provides the blank and CNC machining provides the final dimension. We advise on appropriate stock allowance when designing waterjet blanks.
Does waterjet cutting leave a rough edge?
Waterjet cut edges have a characteristic striated surface texture. For most applications this is acceptable on non-functional surfaces. Where a smooth edge is required, a light milling or grinding pass removes the striation and produces a clean functional edge.
Can waterjet cut stacked layers or multiple sheets simultaneously?
Yes. Multiple sheets of thin material can be stacked and cut simultaneously, improving throughput for thin-gauge blanks. The dimensional accuracy and edge quality are maintained across the stack.
How does waterjet compare to laser cutting?
Waterjet has no heat-affected zone and cuts thicker sections. Laser cutting is faster on thin sheet material (under 1/2″) and produces a cleaner edge on thin stock. Waterjet is preferred for thick plate, hardened material, heat-sensitive alloys, and non-metallic materials.