What Is Aluminum Waterjet Cutting?
Waterjet cutting is a cold-cutting technology that uses ultra-high-pressure water mixed with abrasive to cut materials. Unlike laser or plasma cutting, waterjet generates no heat-affected zone (HAZ), making it ideal for aluminum, which is sensitive to heat and deformation.
Aluminum Waterjet Cutting Video
Watch real aluminum cutting performance here:
Why Use Waterjet to Cut Aluminum?
Aluminum has high thermal conductivity and low melting point, making it vulnerable to thermal damage. Waterjet cutting avoids these issues and offers:
- No heat distortion or warping
- Clean, burr-free edges
- Ability to cut thick aluminum (up to 300mm+)
- Complex shapes, curves, and internal cuts
- CNC control with high accuracy
- Environmentally friendly, no fumes or dust
Waterjet vs Traditional Cutting Methods
| Method | Heat Affected | Edge Quality | Thick Aluminum | Precision |
| Waterjet | No | Excellent | 300mm+ | High |
| Laser | Yes | Good but melted edges | Limited | Medium |
| Plasma | Yes | Rough | Yes | Low |
| Flame | Yes | Poor | Yes | Very low |
| Milling | No | Excellent | Slow for thick | High |
Common Applications of Aluminum Waterjet Cutting
- Aerospace components
- Automotive aluminum parts
- Architectural panels
- Molds and fixtures
- Custom metal fabrication
- Industrial machinery components
Machine Selection Guide for Aluminum Waterjet Cutting
1. For Faster Cutting Speed: Rack & Pinion Systems
Aluminum is well-suited for high-speed processing. Choose rack-and-pinion drive systems for:
- Higher speed
- Better long-stroke stability
- Improved productivity
Recommended solution: APW-GS3020-A22S-BP
2. For Thick Aluminum (200–300mm+)
To cut ultra-thick aluminum, you need:
- High-power pump
- Extended Z-axis (standard: 150mm, optional: 300mm+)
Recommended setup:
- 420MPa / 450MPa / 600MPa pumps
- Reinforced cutting table structure
3. For High Precision: 5-Axis Systems
AB 5-Axis (±12°)
Compensates taper for better vertical accuracy.
AC 5-Axis (±75°)
Enables:
- Bevel cutting
- 3D surface cutting
- Complex part machining
4. For Cutting Both Plates and Tubes: 2-in-1 Waterjet Machines
Model example: APW-V6-BG3540BA-DXACWZ
Benefits:
- One machine for plates & pipes
- Lower investment cost
- Higher workshop flexibility
Talk to a Sales Engineer for the Best Solution
To get the right configuration, prepare:
- Material thickness
- Plate or pipe size
- Required accuracy
- Daily working hours
A professional recommendation avoids overspending and under-performance.
Learn More: Metal Cutting Techniques & Guides
For further reading:
- Aluminum types & cutting methods
- Metalworking fundamentals
- Waterjet in manufacturing (nut example)
- Waterjet vs Laser cost comparison
- Selecting tools by metal type
Waterjet cutting aluminum delivers:
- Precision
- No heat damage
- Excellent surface quality
- High flexibility
- Eco-friendly processing
It is one of the most reliable solutions for modern aluminum fabrication.
AQ – Aluminum Waterjet Cutting
Q1: Can a waterjet cut thick aluminum?
Yes. With a high-power pump and extended Z-axis, waterjets can cut aluminum up to 300mm or more.
Q2: Will waterjet cutting deform aluminum?
No. Waterjet is cold cutting, so there is no heat-affected zone or material distortion.
Q3: Is waterjet better than laser for aluminum?
For thick plates and high edge quality, waterjet is often better. Laser is faster on thin sheets.
Q4: Does waterjet leave burrs on aluminum edges?
Usually no. Most aluminum parts need no secondary finishing.
Q5: Can one machine cut both plates and pipes?
Yes. 2-in-1 waterjet machines handle sheets and tubes in one system.
Q6: What pump pressure is recommended for aluminum cutting?
Typically 420–600MPa is ideal, especially for thick aluminum or high-speed cutting.
Q7: Do I need a 5-axis system for aluminum?
Not always. For standard cuts, 3-axis is enough. For high vertical accuracy or bevel cutting, 5-axis is recommended.
Q8: Is abrasive always required when cutting aluminum?
For thin sheets, pure water may work, but abrasive waterjet is recommended for thicker or harder aluminum alloys.
Q9: How accurate is aluminum waterjet cutting?
With proper setup and calibration, accuracy can reach ±0.1 mm or better depending on thickness and speed.
Q10: Is waterjet cutting suitable for small batch production?
Yes. Waterjets are ideal for prototypes and small batches since no tooling or molds are required.
