Page 35 - MetalForming February 2016

This Boeing cowling piece, at 14 by 14 ft., is hoisted near the 8 by 13-ft. midrail-gantry waterjet-cutting system used to pro- duce it at Arro-Jet. Because the part is so large, it must be welded from two parts to achieve its ring shape.
forms them into their recognizable curved final shapes. Besides aluminum, Arro-Jet cuts a variety of materials on its waterjets, including stainless steel, copper, titanium, Hastelloy and laminated woods. It can process plates in sizes to 12 by 30 ft. and weighing to 12,000 lb. The machines
also cut through steel to 10 in. thick.
The waterjet system that Arro-Jet uses to cut the Boeing
parts supports multiple cutting heads and can cut complex parts from a range of materials. Its design separates the motion system from the catcher tank, eliminating vibration and ensuring high part quality, according to Jet Edge officials.
Specializes in Complicated Work, Quick Turnaround
Arro-Jet specializes in handling complicated jobs that other waterjet shops cannot undertake, according to Arce. The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)-certified company benefits from Arce’s mechanical-engineering expe- rience and programming expertise. In addition to his job- shop cutting services, Arce, with his mechanical-engineering degree, also provides engineering consulting services to other waterjet users. His company also specializes in rapid turnarounds.
“If they want it tomorrow, they will have it tomorrow,” he says.
Key to the three Jet Edge systems employed by Arro-Jet are the abilities to cut with multiple cutting heads and to tight- ly nest parts.
For example, one customer needed parts cut from twen- ty 84 by 40-in., 3-in.-thick titanium plates valued at $50,000/plate. The customer expected to receive nine parts from each plate, relates Arce, but tight nesting by Arro-Jet pro- duced 10. As a result, the customer received 20 extra parts.
“That’s one reason why customers come back,” Arce says.
MF
Article supplied by Jet Edge, St. Michael, MN; 800/JET- EDGE; www.jetedge.com.
Arro-Jet cuts the Boeing engine pieces at a water pressure of 55,000 psi with a 0.012/0.045-in.- dia. orifice/nozzle combination using 1 lb. of abrasive garnet per minute. Waterjet is ideal for this application because it leaves a smooth edge that doesn’t need to be ground away, explains company owner Jose Luis Arce, adding that the cold-cutting process does not leave a heat-affected zone.
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