Forged Blades

Precision waterjet machining is used to machine forged blades to a near-net shape condition. Huffman machines are capable of producing a variety of shapes and sizes, with our integrated CAD/CAM software on Huffman's five- or six-axis waterjet machining systems.

Process

• A CAD model for each blade type is used to generate the finished root form shape.
• The part is held by the root or airfoil with inexpensive and easy fixturing.
• Huffman machines allow a tolerance within ±0.001" (0,03 mm).
• Single cuts are made in a single pass to finish the part to dimension.

Surface Finish

Surface finish is contingent upon a number of process variables including material type, abrasive type and feed rates. Typically feed rates run 30-60 RMS.

Cycle Times

Cycle times are considerably less than conventional methods. Actual cycle times will depend upon part geometry, material type, and the amount of material removed. Typically cycle time runs 2 - 2.5 times faster than conventional.

Machine Features and Benefits

• Available on the Huffman WJ-155 and WJ-156 series waterjet systems.
• Fully enclosed work envelope decreases noise level, water spillage and creates a safe work environment for the operator.
• Waterjet process does not induce stress into the part.
• Waterjet process does not create a heat affected zone and does not change the materials crystalline structure.
• Inexpensive tooling/fixturing.
• From part design to production in one day.
• Reduced scrap rate with increased accuracy and repeatability.
• Safe and environmentally-friendly waste reclamation system.