A CNC multi-process waterjet cutting system uses ESAB's patented waterjet/plasma combination to produce cut parts using the speed of plasma-arc and the accuracy of waterjet.

ESAB Cutting Systems will demonstrate the Hydrocut LR multi-process waterjet cutting system at IMTS, Booth B6157. This CNC shape-cutting machine uses ESAB's patented waterjet/plasma combination to produce cut parts using the speed of plasma and the accuracy of waterjet. The waterjet process can also be combined with many other cutting or marking process tools, including oxyfuel cutting, plasma marking, ink-jet marking, routing, drilling or scribing.

The advantage of combining waterjet and plasma on the same machine is that both tools can be used on the same parts.

Contours requiring high precision can be cut with waterjet, while other contours can be cut with plasma.

This system allows users to produce the precision contours they need without sacrificing speed on every cut.

The Hydrocut LR is a precision gantry on floor mounted rails, featuring digital AC drives, brushless AC motors and precision planetary gearboxes.

The machine delivers smooth, accurate motion for the most precise cuts on a wide variety of materials.

Hydrocut LR features positioning accuracy of +/-0.010in over 3ft in each axis, and repeatability of +/-0.002in.

A maximum positioning speed of 600in/min keeps traverse time to a minimum.

Combined with ESAB's high-speed lifters and integrated process control, this speed delivers maximum throughput and low cost per part.

The Hydrocut LR is available with cutting widths of 8ft to 20ft.

It can be equipped with up to four waterjet cutting stations, along with a wide variety of other cutting and marking process tools.

When combined with ESAB's m3 Precision Plasma system, the Hydrocut LR provides the ultimate tool for maximized production and precision cutting.

Automatic height control for both waterjet and plasma processes allows underwater cutting with the waterjet and plasma tools.

This reduces noise, fumes, plasma glare and abrasive spray.

The automatic height control also allows unattended cutting.

Operators can perform other jobs while the Hydrocut LR is working and not worry about the waterjet nozzle or plasma torch crashing.

Large parts can be produced with minimal supervision because the height will remain constant.

The Hydrocut LR can be equipped with waterjet systems from 30 to 100 HP and with plasma systems from 100 to 600A.

ESAB's m3 Precision Plasma system provides high precision cutting on carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum from gauge material up to 6in thick.

ESAB Welding and Cutting Products is one of the world's largest and most experienced manufacturers of welding and cutting equipment and welding filler metals.

Recognized as the technological leader in the industry, ESAB is committed to providing customized solutions for its customers.