Combination Waterjet/Plasma Cutter

The Hydrocut CNC shape-cutting machine from ESAB Cutting Systems combines waterjet and plasma cutting capabilities in a single machine.

This machine uses a patented system that allows thermal and nonthermal processes to be installed on the same gantry. With waterjet and plasma combined on the same machine, both tools can be used on the same parts. For example, high-precision contours can be cut with waterjet, while less stringent contours can be cut with plasma. This system allows users to obtain precise cuts when needed without sacrificing speed on every cut, says the manufacturer.

The rail-mounted gantry has a fully enclosed dual linear rail cross beam. It is also equipped with digital AC drives, brushless AC motors, and planetary gearboxes. The machine features positioning accuracy of ± 0.005 in. over 3 ft. in each axis, with repeatability of ± 0.002 in. The maximum positioning speed is 1,000 IPM.

This system is available in three sizes: 4 by 4 ft., 5 by 10 ft., and 6 by 12 ft. It can be equipped with a single station or with two cutting heads on a spreader bar, with waterjet systems from 30 to 100 HP, and with plasma systems from 100 to 600 amps.

Automatic height control for both processes allows underwater cutting to reduce noise, fumes, plasma glare, and abrasive spray. The automatic height control also permits unattended cutting with no worry about the waterjet nozzle or plasma torch crashing. Large parts can be produced with minimal supervision because the height is maintained automatically.

For more information, visit www.esab.ca.