Secure Support for Small Parts
One of the key advantages of waterjet bricks is their ability to support small parts during cutting. In conventional setups, tiny components often fall through the slats into the tank, leading to material loss and additional cleanup time. Waterjet bricks eliminate this problem by providing a stable surface that keeps even the smallest cut parts in place.
Eliminates the Need for Holding Tabs
Traditional waterjet cutting often requires programming “holding tabs” to prevent parts from shifting or dropping out during processing. This adds complexity to programming and can reduce cut quality. With waterjet bricks, parts remain supported throughout the process, reducing or eliminating the need for such tabs and simplifying programming workflows.
Supports Flexible and Delicate Materials
Waterjet bricks provide a smooth, flat, and uniform cutting surface, making them ideal for flexible and delicate materials. These include:
Sheet metal
Insulation foam
Silicone, cork, phenolic, and other gasket materials
Fabrics and textiles
This stable support helps maintain material integrity and improves cutting accuracy, especially for materials that would otherwise deform or shift during processing.
Reduces Splash-Back and Improves Water Flow
Another benefit of waterjet bricks is improved water management during cutting. They help reduce splash-back, which can interfere with the cutting process and create a mess in the work area. Additionally, they assist in channeling water away from the cut zone, contributing to a cleaner and more controlled cutting environment.
Minimizes Surface Damage and “Frosting”
Some materials are sensitive to jet reflection from traditional slat supports, which can cause surface damage such as frosting, scarring, or marking on the underside of the material. Waterjet bricks help reduce or eliminate this issue by providing a more consistent support surface that minimizes unwanted jet reflection.
Easy Installation and Maintenance
Waterjet bricks are designed for convenience. They simply sit on top of existing material support slats, requiring no complex installation. When sections become worn over time, they can be replaced individually rather than replacing the entire system. Custom sizing options are also available to ensure a precise fit for different machine setups.
Conclusion
Waterjet bricks offer a practical upgrade for waterjet cutting systems by improving material support, reducing waste, simplifying programming, and protecting sensitive materials. Their ease of installation and maintenance makes them a cost-effective solution for manufacturers seeking better efficiency and cut quality.