Waterjet robot allows 6-axis cutting

WARDJet has introduced the multipurpose waterjet robot. It integrates waterjet cutting with end-of-arm tooling to achieve 6-axis cutting. A seventh axis is possible with the addition of a headstock/tailstock fixture that rotates the part while the robot cuts around it.

The robot is a collaboration between the manufacturer and Motoman. The HP20D-A80 robot arm is designed for use in cutting and dispensing applications. Fitted with a waterjet cutting head, the robot can achieve accuracies within 0.1 mm, depending on the application.

The slim base, waist, and arm of the robot allow the cutting tables and fixtures to be placed close to the machine to help minimize floor space requirements. The compact design allows the robot to be operated alone, or it can work with up to eight other robots without concern for collision.

The robot can cut either with pure water or a mixture of water and abrasive.