When you’re working with stainless steel thicker than 6mm, the cutting method you choose can make or break your project. For thick stainless steel applications, waterjet cutting1 generally provides better edge quality2 while laser cutting3 offers faster speeds for simpler shapes.
Let’s examine the key differences through the lens of real-world manufacturing experience.
Which method handles thicker materials better?
Waterjet cutting can handle stainless steel up to 200mm thick, while laser cutting typically maxes out at 30mm for optimal results. The waterjet’s abrasive stream maintains cutting effectiveness regardless of material thickness.
| Method | Max Thickness | Tolerance | Kerf Width |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterjet | 200mm | ±0.1mm | 0.8-1.2mm |
| Laser | 30mm | ±0.05mm | 0.1-0.3mm |
Which provides better edge quality?
Waterjet cutting produces smoother edges without heat distortion, making it ideal for visible or precision components. Here’s why our medical device clients prefer waterjet:
- No heat-affected zone
- Matte finish ready for anodizing
- Consistent edge quality across thicknesses
Which is faster for production runs?
Laser cutting is typically 3x faster than waterjet for straight cuts in medium to high volume production. Our production data shows:
| Part Type | Laser Time | Waterjet Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10mm bracket | 45 sec | 2.5 min |
| 15mm flange | 1.2 min | 4 min |
Which is more cost-effective4?
For prototypes (<50 units), waterjet is often more economical. For production (>100 units), laser cutting usually offers better cost efficiency. Typical cost breakdown:
| Qty | Waterjet/part | Laser/part |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $18.50 | $22.00 |
| 100 | $16.00 | $9.50 |
| 1000 | $14.00 | $5.75 |
Which offers more material flexibility5?
Waterjet cutting can handle any stainless grade (304, 316, 17-4PH) without adjustment, while lasers require parameter changes. We recommend waterjet for:
- Mixed material stacks
- Coated metals
- Heat-sensitive alloys
Which requires less secondary processing6?
85% of waterjet-cut parts ship without additional finishing, while 60% of laser-cut parts need deburring. Common post-processing needs:
| Process | Waterjet | Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Deburring | Rarely | Often |
| Grinding | Never | Sometimes |
| Polishing | Optional | Usually |
Need help choosing the right method for your project?
Our metal cutting specialists can analyze your designs and recommend the most cost-effective solution. Get a free consultation today or email us at marketing@chinaruicheng.com.
Why choose us for your stainless steel cutting needs?
- 15+ years precision metalworking experience
- Both waterjet and laser cutting in-house
- ISO 9001 certified quality system
- Fast turnaround from prototype to mass production
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Explore the benefits of waterjet cutting, especially for thick materials, to understand its superior edge quality and versatility. ↩
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Discover the importance of edge quality in manufacturing and how different cutting methods achieve varying results. ↩
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Learn about the speed advantages of laser cutting, particularly for production runs, and how it can impact your project timelines. ↩
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Understand the cost implications of choosing between waterjet and laser cutting for your projects, especially in bulk production. ↩
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Find out about the range of materials that waterjet cutting can handle, making it a versatile choice for various applications. ↩
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Learn about the role of secondary processing in metal cutting and how it varies between different cutting methods. ↩
