Small components can be a great challenge to cut as you could easily lose them. These tiny parts can slip and fall in between the grates or slates on the waterjet cutting machine.

The grates on most waterjet cutting machines are positioned an inch (2.5 cm) apart and are designed to support large sheet materials.

An easy solution to this is to use a waterjet brick. It is generally rectangular in shape and made of corrugated plastic such as polypropylene. Besides preventing the object from slipping in between the grates, the waterjet brick provides even support for the object during the cutting process.

You will also find it useful for cutting very soft or scratch-prone materials as it prevents frosting and marring from backsplash. Moreover, minimal fixing support is required while cutting the material as the sideway forces are negligible. When cutting a thin material, the waterjet brick provides dense support, prevents backsplash and the material remains in its position during the cutting process.

As the brick is made of soft plastic, it can wear out fairly quickly. I would recommend to only use this when necessary. In addition, the debris from the brick should be collected from the catcher tank on a regular basis to prevent it from clogging the water filters. 

By Ajay Thanki, GMA Middle East
Certified Technician for Water Jet Operation and Maintenance SSPC Coating Inspector

*Note: These recommendations are to be implemented at the user’s discretion and deemed fit for their operating environment. In no event will GMA be responsible for expected performance or damages of any nature whatsoever resulting from the use of or reliance upon information presented here.