Wardjet R-Series Rotary Waterjet Cutting System

$200,000 - $320,000 Updated 2026-03-17

Key Specifications

Cutting Envelope Options

1,500×3,000 mm to 2,500×4,000 mm

Z-Axis Stroke

400 mm

Rotary Head Tilt

±90 degrees (A-axis)

Rotary Head Rotation

360 degrees continuous (C-axis)

Max Operating Pressure

60,000 psi (4,137 bar)

Pump Power

50 hp (37 kW)

Overview

The Wardjet R-Series is a specialized waterjet cutting system featuring an integrated rotary cutting head designed for true 3D cutting of complex three-dimensional surfaces and contours. Built on Wardjet's proven gantry frame architecture, the R-Series adds a servo-driven A and C-axis cutting head with ±90-degree tilt and full 360-degree rotation, enabling the machine to cut precise angles, bevels, and sculpted profiles that would otherwise require multi-step setups on conventional 3-axis waterjet systems.

The rotary head design makes the R-Series particularly well-suited for automotive and aerospace applications where compound-angle trim cuts on thermoformed plastics, carbon fiber panels, and formed sheet metal are common. The machine's CNC controller integrates directly with leading CAM packages including Mastercam, Alphacam, and Wardjet's own software to generate 5-axis toolpaths from solid model surfaces, enabling accurate trimming of curved parts in a single setup with no fixturing changes.

The R-Series is built on a welded steel frame with cutting envelopes from 1,500 x 3,000 mm to 2,500 x 4,000 mm, and a Z-axis stroke of 400 mm to accommodate tall fixtures and formed parts. The pump system delivers up to 60,000 psi from a 50 hp (37 kW) direct-drive unit, providing the cutting pressure needed to trim composites and metals at competitive feed rates. A dynamic pressure control system adjusts output between cuts to extend seal life during non-cutting moves.

Wardjet offers the R-Series with an optional fixture design service, helping customers develop stable, waterproof part-holding solutions for curved and non-planar workpieces — a common challenge in 5-axis waterjet applications. The system is backed by Wardjet's Canadian engineering team and North American service network, with typical lead times of 16–24 weeks from order to installation.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Cutting Envelope Options	1,500×3,000 mm to 2,500×4,000 mm
Z-Axis Stroke	400 mm
Rotary Head Tilt	±90 degrees (A-axis)
Rotary Head Rotation	360 degrees continuous (C-axis)
Max Operating Pressure	60,000 psi (4,137 bar)
Pump Power	50 hp (37 kW)
Positioning Accuracy	±0.08 mm
Drive System	Servo motors with precision ball screws (X/Y/Z), direct-drive servos (A/C)
Max Cutting Depth (Steel)	100 mm
Abrasive Hopper Capacity	136 kg
CNC Control	PC-based with 5-axis CAM integration
Certifications	CE, CSA
Travel X	80.0
Travel Y	157.2
Travel Z	12.0
Table Size	6.7 W x 13.1 L

Specifications sourced from machinetools.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Full ±90° tilt and 360° continuous rotation enables true 5-axis cutting of complex 3D surfaces in a single setup
50 hp, 60,000 psi pump delivers the cutting power needed for thick metals and dense composites
Designed for automotive trim and aerospace panel cutting where compound-angle cuts are standard
Optional fixture design service from Wardjet's engineering team simplifies part-holding for curved workpieces
North American service network and Canadian engineering support provide reliable post-sale backup

Limitations

Higher cost than 3-axis waterjet systems; best justified when 5-axis cutting is a regular production requirement
5-axis toolpath programming requires CAM expertise and solid model source data for accurate results
Waterproofing fixtures for 3D curved parts adds setup complexity and fixturing cost compared to flat-sheet cutting

Best For

Automotive Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers trimming thermoformed plastics, composite panels, and formed sheet metal parts Aerospace subcontractors cutting complex compound angles on titanium, aluminum, and carbon fiber components Contract waterjet shops differentiating with 5-axis capability to serve customers who cannot use 3-axis machines Manufacturers producing architectural metalwork or artistic installations requiring non-planar waterjet cutting

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What CAM software is compatible with the R-Series 5-axis head?

The R-Series CNC controller accepts toolpaths from Mastercam, Alphacam, Hypermill, and Wardjet's own 5-axis CAM package. Post-processors are provided for each major CAM system. Solid model import (STEP, IGES, SolidWorks) is supported for direct surface programming.

02 How does the R-Series handle waterproofing fixtures for curved parts?

Wardjet offers a fixture design service as an option with the R-Series. Their engineering team designs waterproof, clamping fixtures tailored to customer part geometries. Fixtures typically use modular aluminum extrusions with sealed contact points and drain provisions built into the catch tank.

03 What materials is the R-Series most commonly used to cut?

The R-Series is most commonly used for automotive composite panels, thermoformed ABS and polypropylene, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), aluminum sheet metal stampings, and aerospace titanium plate. Its 5-axis capability is most valuable on materials with compound-angle trim requirements.

04 Can the R-Series perform standard flat 3-axis cutting as well?

Yes. When the rotary head is locked in the vertical position, the R-Series operates identically to a conventional 3-axis waterjet machine. This makes it practical as a versatile production machine that handles both flat sheet cutting and 3D trim operations.

05 What is the lead time for the R-Series?

Wardjet typically quotes 16–24 weeks from order to delivery and installation for the R-Series, depending on envelope size, pump configuration, and current production queue. Site preparation requirements including floor reinforcement and utilities should be completed before machine arrival.