We are continuously developing and optimising production processes to achieve better results in terms of product quality, production time, and consequently, product cost and price. By taking this into consideration, we strive to uphold our competitive capabilities in the market. In the past, researchers have tried to improve conventional machining processes by employing cryogenic cooling of the workpiece, but we wanted to use the same method to improve the process of machining with an abrasive water jet (AWJ). We determined the effect of the temperature on the machining of aluminium alloy AlMg4,5Mn0,7 and stainless steel X5CrNi18-10. While machining, we measured the temperature of the workpieces at various points along the machining zone. We compared the erosion efficiency of the samples that were undercooled as well as those that were at room temperature. We engraved the surface of every workpiece and compared the amount of the eroded material, which was calculated as the difference in the mass of the workpiece before and after it was engraved. We then focused on the surface roughness of the samples that were undercooled and those that were not. The roughness was measured by using a digital microscope. We statistically confirmed the positive effect of cryogenic cooling on the effectiveness of the machining of the aluminium alloy. However, we did not prove a positive effect on either the efficacy of machining of stainless steel or the quality of the surface of both materials.
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