Product ID: 20412569 – Orifice Assembly / Sapphire Nozzle (Autoline Series)

Description:
This component is a precision orifice assembly, commonly known as a sapphire nozzle or water nozzle, designed for Autoline series abrasive waterjet cutting heads . It is a small, precision-engineered component that creates the ultra-high-pressure waterjet before it enters the mixing chamber where abrasive is added. The assembly consists of a stainless steel housing, a retaining ring, and a synthetic sapphire (corundum) diaphragm with a laser-drilled microscopic orifice .

This part number corresponds to an orifice diameter of 0.013 inches (0.33 mm) and features a short stem configuration for compatibility with Autoline style cutting heads . Alternative or cross-reference part numbers include 80433, 20466656, and 7800049 .

Applications:

• Used in abrasive waterjet cutting machines to generate the initial high-pressure waterjet before abrasive mixing .

• Installed in the upper section of the Autoline series cutting head assembly, positioned above the mixing chamber and wear insert.

• Suitable for ultra-high pressure waterjet systems operating at 60,000 PSI (approximately 4,137 bar) .

Features:

• Constructed from a stainless steel outer housing with a synthetic sapphire (corundum) orifice diaphragm, providing exceptional wear resistance and longevity .

• Laser-drilled microscopic orifice creates an extremely precise, coherent waterjet for optimal cutting performance .

• Short stem design for compatibility with Autoline series cutting head assemblies .

• Rated for continuous operation at 60,000 PSI (4,137 bar) .

• Typical service life exceeds 150 hours under normal operating conditions .

• The orifice diameter (0.33 mm / 0.013 inches) is optimized for standard abrasive waterjet applications .

• For optimal cutting efficiency and extended mixing tube life, the orifice diameter should be maintained in a 1:3 ratio with the mixing tube inner diameter .

Maintenance:

• Before removing or servicing the orifice assembly, fully depressurize the waterjet system and follow lockout/tagout procedures.

• During cutting head disassembly, carefully remove the orifice assembly from the nozzle body or cap using appropriate tools; avoid damaging the delicate sapphire orifice surface .

• Regularly inspect the orifice for signs of wear, erosion, or diameter enlargement using a magnifying glass or microscope; worn orifices will show visible rounding or enlargement of the hole .

• Inspect the sapphire surface for cracks, chips, or damage. Even minor damage will affect jet coherence and cutting performance.

• Clean the orifice assembly by soaking in mild cleaning solution and using compressed air to dry; do not use metal tools or abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the delicate orifice surface .

• If blockage is suspected, use only a soft wire or specialized cleaning tool designed for sapphire orifices; never force metal objects through the orifice .

• Replace the orifice assembly when cut quality degrades (e.g., rougher edge finish, slower cutting speed, increased kerf width), when visible wear is observed, or at scheduled preventive maintenance intervals.

• Do not attempt to ream, drill, or resize a worn orifice; replace it with a new assembly.

• When installing a new orifice, ensure all sealing surfaces and O-rings are clean and undamaged. Lubricate O-rings with manufacturer-recommended high-pressure grease.

• Tighten the retaining cap or gland nut to the specific torque value listed in the equipment service manual; over-tightening may crack the sapphire orifice while under-tightening may cause high-pressure leaks .

• Always replace the orifice assembly when replacing the mixing tube (focusing tube) to ensure optimal system performance and maintain the recommended 1:3 diameter ratio .

• Store spare orifice assemblies in a clean, dry, protective container to prevent dust contamination or physical damage to the delicate sapphire surface before use.