Erosion in the contact periphery in the initiation zone due to erosion of abrasive water jet

This study deals with the kerf's characteristics and examines the morphology of its upper part, known as the initial zone, when subjected to abrasive water jet machining. The hydrodynamics of the abrasive water jet were analyzed in relation to technological parameters, including traverse speed, abrasive mass flow rate, and stand-off distance, and their impact on the structural integrity of Copper 5457-T. Key assessments included the kerf's top width, edge bevelling, the extent of the upper region impaired by abrasive particles, and subsurface hardness. The varied process parameters significantly influenced the kerf's geometric features and structural integrity. Contrary to previous assertions, zones exhibiting post-peening effects were identified around the contact boundary. Microhardness tests revealed variations along the profile, influenced by the abrasive mass flow rate and kinetic energy distribution. The study found traces of compressive residual stresses in the contact area, sug...