Views: 266 Author: SEPPE Garnet Team Publish Time: 2026-07-27 Origin: SGA Waterjet
The right garnet should pass through the cutting head steadily and deliver the cut you need. Mesh size matters, but it is only one part of that decision. The cutting-head design, abrasive feed rate and particle distribution also affect the result.
A mesh grade describes a particle-size range established by sieve analysis. A lower mesh number generally indicates a coarser abrasive; a higher number indicates a finer one. It does not mean that every grain in the bag has an identical diameter.
This distinction matters because two products marked “80 mesh” can contain different amounts of coarse grains and fines. One may feed smoothly while another causes interruptions or delivers less consistent cutting. The label identifies the grade, while the sieve report shows its actual distribution.
For many abrasive waterjet systems, 80 mesh is the practical starting point. It offers a useful balance between cutting energy and reliable flow through a compatible mixing tube. Its widespread use, however, does not make it suitable for every cutting head.
80 mesh: the usual choice for general abrasive waterjet cutting when the equipment is designed for it.
120 mesh: a finer option for compatible systems. It may suit work that requires a narrower abrasive stream, but the feed rate and cutting settings must be confirmed by trial.
A coarser abrasive carries more mass per grain, but it also needs enough room to pass through the complete abrasive path. A finer abrasive contains more grains for the same weight, although each grain carries less cutting energy. Neither direction is automatically better.
Oversized grains can interrupt abrasive flow when they approach the limit of the mixing tube. Too many fines may feed easily but contribute less useful cutting energy. Moisture creates a different problem by making otherwise suitable garnet clump in the hopper or feed line.
When comparing supplies, review the sieve data and keep the garnet sealed and dry. Consistent particle distribution is often more valuable than changing from one mesh number to another without a clear reason.
Start with the abrasive range approved for the cutting head. When testing another grade, keep the machine settings and test material unchanged. Watch the abrasive feed, examine the finished edge and record actual consumption. This gives a more reliable answer than assigning a mesh size from a general material chart.
SEPPE supplies SGA 80 waterjet garnet and SGA 120 fine waterjet garnet. If you are comparing grades, send the cutting-head specification and current abrasive information through our contact page.
