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Comparing Precision Abrasive Waterjet Machining to Milling

Key mill or machining center strengths

• A well-understood familiar technology
• Able to make three-dimensional parts
• Rapid production if set up and programmed for long-run parts

Key precision abrasive waterjet strengths

• Very rapid programming and set up does not require a highly trained operator
• Very low cutting loads mean fixturing is easier, and intricate and delicate parts can be machined
• One cutting tool performs all machining functions in all materials, so there is no need to purchase and calibrate multiple cutting tools
• Large cutting envelope compared to a machining center of comparable price
• Minimal burr compared to conventional machining
• Environmentally friendly; no oil-soaked chips and minimal scrap

The key reasons traditional job shops buy precision abrasivejets are to get new projects, become more competitive, and make more money. In many cases the abrasivejet is used to blank out parts for final machining on a machining center