Laser & Waterjet

Laser micromachining includes processes like laser ablation, where the laser energy penetrates the material and leads to some transformation. Laser ablation is the direct removal of material resulting from the interaction of the laser light with the sample. Most commonly, ablation relies on the laser light being absorbed in the material, leading to material interaction.

Source: Modern Machine Shop’s Handbook for the Metalworking Industries

Waterjet cutting, at its simplest, is the process of a high-pressure jet of water cutting into a material. The technology often compliments other machining techniques such as milling, laser, EDM and plasma. No hazardous material or vapors form during the waterjet process, and neither do heat-affected zones or mechanical stresses. Waterjet can cut whisper-thin details in stone, glass and metals; quickly drill holes in titanium; cut food; and even kill pathogens in beverages and dips.

Source: Machining 101: What is Waterjet Cutting?

Potential errors affecting accuracy include cutter compensation error, programming error and machine motion.

Cutter compensation is the value entered into the control system to take into account the width of cut from the jet — that is, the amount by which the cut path must be enlarged so the final part comes out the proper size. To avoid potential errors in high-precision work, the operator should conduct test cuts and know the frequency at which cutter compensation must be adjusted to match mixing tube wear.

Programming errors arise most often because some XY controls do not show dimensions on part programs, making lack of dimensional matching between the part program and the CAD drawing difficult to detect. Important aspects of machine motion that can introduce errors are backlash in the mechanical unit and repeatability.