Micro abrasive waterjets (MAWs) have jet diameters ranging from 10 to 100 #mu#m, compared to 0.5 to 1.2 mm for conventional abrasive waterjets. Although jet diameters are much smaller, MAWs retain the unique machining capabilities of conventional abrasive waterjets but at the micro machining level. MAWs can machine intricate details that are comparable in scale to those achieved with micro machining lasers. The paper discusses the concepts behind MAWs, the development of equipment to power 40 to 50 #mu#m diameter jets, the capabilities of these jets and the market for MAW based machine tools.
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