What Is Waterjet Cutting? Our Expert Guide
If you’ve ever wondered how manufacturers achieve such precise cuts on thick, tough materials without heat distortion or burning, the answer is likely waterjet cutting. This versatile and highly accurate method has become a go-to solution across a wide range of industries, from aerospace and automotive to construction and creative design.
In this expert guide, we’ll explain what waterjet cutting is, how it works, and why it might be the perfect solution for your next project.
What Is Waterjet Cutting?
Waterjet cutting is a cold-cutting process that uses a high-pressure stream of water, sometimes combined with an abrasive substance like garnet, to cut through materials. Unlike traditional cutting methods or thermal techniques like laser or plasma, waterjet cutting doesn’t generate heat — making it ideal for materials that are sensitive to high temperatures.
How Does Waterjet Cutting Work?
The process begins by pressurising water up to 60,000 psi or more, which is then expelled through a small nozzle at incredibly high speeds. When cutting tougher materials, an abrasive is added to the stream to increase its cutting power. The result is a jet capable of slicing through even the most robust materials with exceptional precision.
What Materials Can Be Cut?
One of the main benefits of waterjet cutting is its ability to process almost any material, including:
- Stainless steel, mild steel, aluminium
- Stone and granite
- Ceramics and tiles
- Glass (including laminated and bulletproof)
- Plastics, rubber, and foam
This flexibility makes it ideal for industries with complex material needs.
What Are the Key Benefits?
1. No Heat-Affected Zones (HAZ)
As a cold-cutting method, waterjet cutting avoids issues like warping, hardening, or melting — perfect for heat-sensitive materials.
2. High Precision and Smooth Finishes
Modern waterjet machines offer cutting tolerances as tight as ±0.1 mm, with edges that often require no secondary finishing.
3. Minimal Material Waste
The narrow kerf (cut width) of the waterjet allows for tight nesting of parts, reducing scrap and maximising efficiency.
4. Environmentally Friendly
There are no hazardous fumes, and the water can often be filtered and reused — making it one of the more eco-conscious cutting options available.
5. Versatility Across Projects
From aerospace components to artistic sculptures and architectural cladding, waterjet cutting supports a wide range of industries and applications.
Who Uses Waterjet Cutting?
Waterjet cutting is commonly used in:
- Manufacturing (metal parts, gaskets, machine components)
- Construction & Architecture (stone flooring, decorative panels)
- Automotive & Aerospace (prototype parts, body components)
- Creative Industries (signage, custom art, furniture design
Whether you’re a small business or part of a larger industrial supply chain, waterjet cutting can be adapted to your needs.
Why Choose NorthWest Waterjet?
At NorthWest Waterjet, we combine industry-leading equipment with years of expertise to deliver precision cutting for clients across the North West and beyond. Whether you’re working with metal, stone, glass or composites, our team can provide fast, accurate and reliable service tailored to your project.
Final Thoughts
Waterjet cutting offers a unique combination of precision, versatility, and eco-friendliness that’s hard to match. It’s an ideal solution for projects where quality and detail matter, regardless of material type or thickness.
Still unsure if waterjet cutting is right for your job? Reach out to our friendly team for a consultation — we’ll help you make the best decision for your application.