ABRASIVE WATER-JET CUTS METAL WITHOUT HEAT.

A recently introduced water/abrasive cutting system from Flow Systems Inc, Kent, WA, shows some real advantages over other forms of cutting in a variety of applications. Known as the PASER (acronym for PArticle Stream ERrosion), the system uses a high-pressure water stream and commercially available abrasive materials such as garnet or silica. The Paser can cut metals up to 7 in. thick - as well as many nonmetals - without heat, leaving a relatively smooth-cut surface finish (typically in the range of 75 to 125 rms). Because it cuts without heat, there is no chance of thermal distortion, localized structural changes, or thermally induced oxidation. Safety is another system feature, and problems normally associated with heat buildup are eliminated.