Cooling Methods for Waterjets: Oil-Water Heat Exchange Closed Circuit and a Chiller

Waterjets, while less common than plasma or laser cutting systems—making up only 5-10% of the global market—play a vital role in cutting materials that other technologies cannot handle. Despite being significantly slower (up to 10 times slower) than thermal cutting methods, waterjets are indispensable for processing thick metals like bronze, copper, and aluminum, non-metals such as rubber and glass, organic materials like wood and ceramics, composites, and even food.

Most waterjet machines are produced by small OEMs. Regardless of size, all waterjets require effective cooling to maintain performance and longevity. The small waterjet systems typically need 2.5 to 3 kW of cooling capacity, while larger systems may require up to 8 kW or more.

An effective cooling solution for these waterjet systems is the oil-water heat exchange closed circuit combined with a water chiller. This method involves transferring heat from the waterjet's oil-based system to a separate water loop. A water chiller then removes heat from the water before it's recirculated. This closed-loop design prevents contamination and ensures optimal cooling efficiency.

TEYU S&A Chiller, a leading water chiller manufacturer, is renowned for the efficiency and stability of its chiller products. The CW series chillers offer cooling capacities from 600W to 42kW and are well-suited for cooling waterjet machines. For example, the CW-6000 chiller model provides a cooling capacity of up to 3140W, making it ideal for small waterjet systems, while the CW-6260 chiller offers up to 9000W of cooling power, perfect for larger systems. These chillers provide reliable and stable temperature control, safeguarding sensitive waterjet components from overheating. By effectively managing heat, this cooling method enhances waterjet performance and extends equipment life.

While waterjet systems may not be as widely used as their thermal cutting counterparts, their unique capabilities make them indispensable in specific industries. Effective cooling, particularly through the oil-water heat exchange closed circuit and chiller method, is critical to their performance, especially in larger, more complex systems. With TEYU high-performance water chillers, waterjet machines can operate more efficiently, ensuring long-term reliability and precision.