A focus on deliver of quality service operations drives Kform to continually strive for process improvements and expansion of capabilities. By investing in manufacturing technology and knowledge, Kform adapts and evolves. The search leads to a multitude of growth opportunities, including rapid prototyping, vacuum molding, and abrasive water jet cutting. Versatile processes allow small providers (Under 500 employees) to employ “best practice”, flexible manufacturing and more efficiently utilize personnel resources.

Why Waterjet?

According to Calypso, one of the several manufacturers examined by Kform, waterjet is the most versatile cutting technology available today. Flow Corporation mentions water as one of the fastest growing major machine tool processes in the world due to its versatility and ease of operation. Although, arguably, the sources of these claims have slight bias, the cutting versatility of abrasive waterjet is undeniable. The machines, with varied levels of pressure, are able to artfully cut materials ranging from thin foam to 2 inch thick glass to 8 inch thick steel with tight tolerances over distance. Kform already employs laser cutting to manufacture parts with free form, curved, and/or complex edges; the waterjet simply extends these capabilities. There are significant advantages over laser in that the water jet creates no heat affected zone creating net-shaped parts without a need for secondary operations, allowing for tighter nesting, and allowing for much thicker/diverse materials. For more information regarding the advantages of waterjet, visit waterjets.org.

What is Waterjet?

The underlying concept of water jet cutting is fairly simple. Water is pressurized then focused through a nozzle. Abrasive cutting is achieved by mixing an abrasive particle element, generally garnet, into the jet stream extending the capabilities of the process. Although the technology has been widely used for decades, recent development improvements have fueled growth in this machine tool.

Decisions

The power and versatility of the waterjet machine tool process makes a strong argument for investment. In 2005, the Calypso waterjet system was recognized with the Frost & Sullivan Award for business value. The system delivers sustained value to business “through superior quality, competitively priced products.” From a ROI perspective, waterjet is a smart choice.

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