Cutting force dynamics as a tool for surface profile monitoring in AWJ

Abrasive waterjet cut surface is characterized using static and dynamic characterization techniques. A novel method of auto regressive moving average model identification called model distance method is utilized here for surface profile and dynamic force characterization. More information about the surface profile generating mechanism is derived through wavelength decomposition of the ARMA models. The dynamic workpiece normal force in abrasive waterjet is influenced by process parameters such as fluctuations in water pressure, change in abrasive flow rate, vibration of the positioning system, traverse speed, nozzle diameter, etc. An attempt has been made in this paper to link the dynamics of the process to the quality of the generated surface. The feasibility of using the dynamic workpiece normal force as a parameter for on-line monitoring of the surface profile generated by abrasive waterjet is also investigated.