Turning With Abrasive-Waterjets—A First Investigation

Quantitative and qualitative results of a novel turning technique that employs abrasive-waterjets as cutting tools are presented. These jets are formed by mixing abrasive particles with a high-velocity (up to 600 m/s) waterjet in a specially designed mixing nozzle. Samples of magnesium boron carbide metal matrix composite, aluminum and glass were turned with the abrasive-waterjet tool. The effects of different parameters on the turning results are discussed. In general, the results illustrate the great potential of this technique to produce near-net-shape parts at fast material removal rates. Efforts for further research and optimization are discussed.