What are Waterjet Cutting Edge Qualities?
Cut edge qualities range from Q1 to Q5. Q1 is the fastest cut and is used primarily
for material separation. Depending on edge finish requirements, slower cutting speeds
of Q2 through Q5 are selected. Parts requiring close tolerance geometry will of
course require smoother edge finishes in that area of the part. (Note: Some other
terms also used in the industry to indicate cut speed or edge quality - 100%, 80%,
60%, 40% & 20% or Fastest, Medium fast, Normal, Better & Best)
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Q1
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Q2
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Q3
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Q4
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Q5
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Photo courtesy of OMAX Corp
Why is choosing the right Edge Quality important?
Depending on what the cut pieces will be used for, your cuts may require different
edge qualities. The Edge Quality directly affects the cost of the job, because it
requires more or less time depending on the edge quality chosen. You could ask two
different companies for quotes to cut the same piece, out of the same material,
and get two vastly different quotes because of the edge qualities. When getting
quotes on waterjet cutting, always ask what edge quality you were quoted at. Requesting
a small sample part, similar to the one shown below, will help determine your requirements
and also be an example of what you can expect on your parts.
Multiple qualities can be utilized within a single piece!
Visual of Cutting Program
Photo courtesy of OMAX Corp
Visual of Actual Piece
Photo courtesy of OMAX Corp
