Robotic Waterjet Drill Combo Tool for Cutting Composites

3-dimensional molded composite parts can be cut with a spindle (router) or waterjet via a 6-axis robot.

Alliance Automation developed a new Waterjet Drill Combo tool specifically for cutting composites!

Standard Process Options  

Router allows for thicker materials and for the ability to cut small holes.  Part fixturing is extremely important to limit vibration and chatter.  Dust is also an issue with router.  

Waterjet offers a cleaner cut with minimal dust but has limitations on cutting capability.  The initial “pierce” of the high pressure water will crack and delaminate the material.  The result is having to cut a hole or feature large enough to encapsulate the cracks.

Alliance Automation decided to combine the benefits of waterjet and router in one tool and developed the Robotic Waterjet Drill Combo Tool (Patent Pending).  This tool has a waterjet nozzle on one end and a retractable 90 degree drill on the opposite side.   The drill advances and allows the robot to drill small pilot holes where the waterjet stream can start without cracking the part.

Once the pilot hole is drilled, the drill retracts and the tool flips around to cut with water.  No more cracking or delamination from the waterjet pierce.  This is the first tool in the robotic waterjet market to also incorporate a drill.  

Applications for this include cutting of Marine (fiberglass hulls. decks, consoles, panels and more) Agriculture (tractor hoods, side panels and more), Bath (Tubs, showers and more).  Heavy Truck and Aerospace.

Have a robotic cutting application?  Contact us for more information.