Water jet cutting job shop

Machine shops, fabricators, product designers, architects, sign makers and repair businesses that need parts cut but don't own a water jet.

Charged by machine time (hourly rate) or by the part, plus material and setup. Repeat work from a few local shops keeps the machine busy.

• Reading drawings and basic CAD/CAM
• Mechanical aptitude for machine upkeep
• Quoting jobs accurately
• Building relationships with local shops

• Zoning and lease terms for light industrial use, check with your city or county
• Electrical service needs (some pumps need three-phase power) and water supply costs
• Rules for disposing of used garnet abrasive and wastewater, check with your local utility or state environmental agency
• General liability and commercial property insurance, plus workers' compensation if you hire
• Pump, seal and nozzle maintenance can be costly and cause downtime
• Customers sending designs that won't cut well, so set clear tolerances and quote terms

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $50,000 to $250,000, depending on the size of the machine, the pump, your electrical and water setup, and the premises. Pump, seal and nozzle maintenance can also be costly.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your machine, the customers you win and how many hours you run. Quote terms and tolerances clearly so unsuitable designs don't cut into your time.

Check zoning and lease terms for light industrial use with your city or county. Also check electrical needs (some pumps need three-phase power), water supply costs, disposal of used garnet abrasive and wastewater, and insurance.