![a waterjet cutting a thick block of steel](https://produse2webst.blob.core.windows.net/cms/flowwaterjetcom2022/media/solutions/applications/thick%20materials/flow-waterjet-applications-thick-materials-hero.png)
Cutting Thick Materials with Waterjet
Waterjets are not limited in what they can cut, including material thicknesses. Truly, a waterjet can cut up to any thickness, but tolerances will change the thicker the material being cut. Tight accuracies can be kept when cutting materials under 4 inches thick, a near net shape is achieved when cutting thicker materials.Not sure a waterjet can handle your material?
![a thick steel block with smooth edges after cutting](https://produse2webst.blob.core.windows.net/cms/flowwaterjetcom2022/media/solutions/applications/thick%20materials/flow-waterjet-applications-thick-materials-edge.png)
The Best Edge
The benefits of a waterjet cut edge on any material does not differ for thicker materials. Because there is no mechanical stress, heat distortion, or heat-affected zone (HAZ) you will get a satin smooth edge directly off the waterjet table.![A thick intricate part being cut with a waterjet](https://produse2webst.blob.core.windows.net/cms/flowwaterjetcom2022/media/solutions/applications/thick%20materials/flow-waterjet-applications-thick-materials-kerf.png)
Minimal Kerf
Because waterjets cut with a narrow kerf, parts can be tightly nested to achieve maximum material usage.![background image](/getmedia/ad64aed0-06e5-44bf-8d97-271084b21e83/flow-waterjet-applications-thick-materials-section-bg.png)
Key Benefits to Cutting Thick Materials with Waterjet
- Increased productivity, fast cutting and high-quality parts
- Raw material savings-reduced scrap
- Minimal lateral or vertical forces
- No thermal damage
- Net or near-net cutting