Is Waterjet or Laser Cutting Better for Your Project?

Van Industries offers both Waterjet and Laser cutting—and we can help you decide what’s best for you. Of course it’s always good to understand how the operations differ and how our shop will help you choose the right machine for your parts. Here’s a quick primer for you.

What is a waterjet cutter?

The waterjet cutting operation uses water and garnet that is compressed to create as much as 60,000 psi to cut a wide variety of materials that include carbon and stainless steel, rubber, titanium, Hastelloy, aluminum, tool steels, plastics, granite, glass, and the list goes on. Because the jet stream is .030” in diameter, parts can be positioned (nested) so that there is little wasted material.

Some other advantages to waterjet cutting

•    Cuts material up to 10” thick

•    Tolerances as close as +/-.005”

•    Burr-free parts

•    No heat-affected zones, so no distortion or warping

•    Multiple heads that cut production times, translating into lower-costing parts

What about laser cutting?

Laser cutters work by aiming a powerful laser beam onto a material. Capabilities vary from 24ga to 1/2"tk carbon, stainless steel and aluminum. Also, certain wood products, plastic and rubber can be cut.

Some of the qualities of laser cutting

•    Less wasted material: The narrow beam melts or vaporizes the small width of material it burns

•    Sharp details: Inside corners can have precise sharp corners if required.

•    Little heat: The beam's energy is applied only where it’s needed; the heat surrounding the cutting area is minimized.

What can we do for you?

We currently have one water jet and two laser cutters to meet most any need. If you bring us your part we can reverse engineer it for you.  We also have complete CAD/CAM capabilities.  Please click below for more information on our cutting and other manufacturing services.

LIST OF SERVICES

WATERJET CUTTING SERVICES

LASER CUTTING SERVICES

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