Aquajet

22/08/2026

Cutting lots of different parts in small batches? The fastest machine on paper isn’t always the one that gives you the best output.

For high-mix, low-volume production, flexibility can matter just as much as cutting speed. Being able to move quickly between materials, thicknesses and new jobs can make a real difference when priorities change and lead times are tight.

When comparing waterjet cutting machines, it’s worth looking at:

• How quickly you can set up a new job
• How easy it is to switch between materials
• Abrasive use and running costs
• Software, nesting and job recall
• Maintenance, reliability and technical support

And if you’re considering an investment, don’t rely on brochure figures alone. Cutting your own parts on your typical materials can give you a much clearer picture of accuracy, edge quality, cycle times and the likely cost per part.

Our latest article looks at what UK manufacturers should consider when choosing a waterjet for high-mix, low-volume production, including machine specification, software, support and the value of practical cutting trials.

Read more: https://www.aquajet.co.uk/choosing-waterjet-cutting-machines-for-mixed-production/

19/08/2026

Is your waterjet really running as well as it should?

A machine doesn’t have to break down completely for maintenance issues to start costing you. Longer cut times, more pierce delays, inconsistent edge quality and frequent nozzle blockages can all be early signs that performance is drifting.

The tricky part is that these small issues can become normal. Operators slow cutting speeds, make adjustments or spend time clearing blockages, while production quietly loses capacity.

A few things worth keeping an eye on:

• Cut times creeping up on familiar jobs
• More frequent stoppages or pressure fluctuations
• Increased wear on nozzles and or***ces
• Changes in edge quality or taper
• Maintenance being carried out only when something goes wrong

A proactive maintenance routine, tailored to your workload and materials, can help catch these problems before they turn into an expensive production stop.

Our latest article looks at the warning signs of under-maintenance on OMAX waterjets, the hidden costs of reactive repairs and some practical steps you can take to protect uptime.

Read more: https://www.aquajet.co.uk/waterjet-downtime-warning-signs-and-fixes-to-apply/

14/08/2026

How much time does your waterjet actually spend cutting, and how much is lost between jobs?

Changeovers can quietly eat into production time, particularly when the schedule is busy. The good news is that reducing setup time doesn’t always mean buying new hardware.

A few simple SMED principles can make a noticeable difference:

• Prepare tools, fixtures and consumables while the machine is still running
• Use standard changeover checklists so operators aren’t searching or second-guessing
• Keep commonly used waterjet accessories together in job-ready kits
• Use pre-set programmes and proven parameters for repeat work
• Review each changeover to find unnecessary movement, waiting or re-checking

The result? Less machine downtime, more flexibility to run smaller batches and a smoother production flow.

We’ve looked at how standard work, kitting and pre-set programmes can help OMAX users cut changeover times without investing in new machinery.

Read more: https://www.aquajet.co.uk/cut-waterjet-setup-times-with-smed-standard-work/

12/08/2026

Buying a waterjet for an R&D lab isn’t just about choosing the biggest table or highest pressure.

When projects, materials and priorities can change from one week to the next, the right machine needs to give your team flexibility without creating unnecessary risk.

Before you buy, it’s worth asking:

• Can it handle the materials and thicknesses you’re likely to work with in future?
• Can you achieve the accuracy and edge quality your projects require?
• Will the software fit naturally into your existing workflow?
• What happens when you need support, servicing or genuine spare parts?
• Have you tested the machine with your own parts and materials?

Application trials can be particularly valuable. Cutting your own CAD files and materials gives you a much clearer picture of what to expect in terms of cut quality, tolerances and cycle times before making a major investment.

We’ve put together some practical advice on choosing a waterjet for R&D and prototyping, including the technical, operational and support considerations that are easy to overlook.

Read more: https://www.aquajet.co.uk/how-to-choose-a-waterjet-for-safer-rd-cutting/

08/08/2026

Buying a new waterjet machine is an exciting milestone. But getting the best from it doesn’t start months down the line. It starts from day one.

The first few weeks can have a real impact on long-term performance, reliability and productivity. A little planning early on can help you avoid unnecessary downtime and give your team the confidence to get the most from the machine.

A few things worth focusing on:
• Carry out proper acceptance testing before production begins
• Introduce the machine with a phased ramp-up rather than jumping straight into full workloads
• Invest in operator training and clear procedures
• Build good maintenance habits and keep essential spare parts on hand

Taking a structured approach during those first 90 days can make all the difference to cut quality, uptime and overall return on your investment.

We’ve shared a practical guide to help manufacturers plan those early months with confidence.

Read more: https://www.aquajet.co.uk/post-purchase-plan-when-you-buy-a-waterjet-machine/

06/08/2026

Have you noticed your waterjet cuts becoming a little rougher than usual?

It often starts with small changes. A bit more taper, deeper striations, or rougher edges. Before long, you’re spending more time deburring, checking tolerances, and dealing with unnecessary scrap.

Before replacing parts, it’s worth checking a few key areas:
• Cutting speed and quality settings
• Nozzle standoff
• Abrasive flow
• Wear in the or***ce and mixing tube

A systematic approach can often pinpoint the real cause and help restore consistent cut quality without unnecessary downtime.

In our latest article, we look at how to diagnose common cut defects, what they tell you about your machine, and how a simple maintenance routine can help keep production running smoothly.

Read more: https://www.aquajet.co.uk/fix-waterjet-cut-defects-taper-striations-roughness/

03/01/2026

02/01/2026

We hope everyone had a great New Years! We are back open today and will resume normal hours! 💫

22/12/2025

Aquajets wishes you Happy Holidays! Thank you for another amazing year! 🎄 🌟

We would like to advise that Aquajet will be closed over the Festive period, from 17:00 on the 22nd December, re-opening on Friday 2nd January from 8:00am. We will be closed for all deliveries from 12.30pm on Monday 22nd December.

19/12/2025

Time is running out! ⌛

Our most incredible offer will expire on 31st December.

Don't miss out on the chance to receive a FREE VersaJET 5-axis cutting head with the purchase of an OptiMAX, MAXiem or OMAX waterjet machine.

Want to know how a waterjet can benefit your business? Our helpful team are here to assist and give advice, along with testimonials of businesses we've helped before!

💫 See the Aquajet Effect here: https://www.aquajet.co.uk/contac