The effect of cutting jet variation on striation formation in abrasive water jet cutting

Abrasive water jet machining is an emerging technology which can shape almo st all engineering materials, but it also produces a characteristic striate d surface finish which limits its potential applications. In this study, th e characterisation of different materials' cut surfaces is investigated usi ng a scanning electron microscope. The effect of abrasive particle distribu tion in the jet on striation formation is detailed. A non-invasive techniqu e, Laser Doppler Anemometry, is used to analyse the abrasive particle distr ibution in the jet. Furthermore, the mechanisms of striation formation are discussed in detail and an effective striation minimisation technique appli ed to the cutting process is outlined. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All r ights reserved.