Waterjet Cutting Machines Market

Waterjet Cutting Machines Market Growth and Industry Forecast

• The global waterjet cutting machines market is expected to grow from US$ 1.7 Bn in 2025 to US$ 2.6 Bn by 2032.
• The market is anticipated to register a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2032.

Waterjet Cutting Machines Market Summary Key Insights & Trends

• Abrasive waterjet systems led the waterjet cutting machines market with over 80% share in 2025, favored for cutting tough materials such as titanium and composites.
• The 3D waterjet cutting machines industry leads the product type segment, accounting for 40% of market revenue in 2025, due to their advanced five-axis capabilities for complex geometries.
• The automotive industry remains the dominant end-use sector with over 35% market share in 2025, due to high demand for precision-cut parts in EV manufacturing.
• The aerospace and defense sector is the fastest-growing application, projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.8%, driven by rising aircraft and missile production.
• Asia Pacific held a 40% share in 2024 and is the fastest-growing region, fueled by industrial growth in China and India.
• North America maintains strong market leadership due to its established aerospace and automotive base, supported by firms such as Boeing and Flow International.
• Non-abrasive waterjet machines are gaining traction in cost-sensitive applications such as packaging and soft materials, supported by their eco-friendly nature.
• Advancements in 5-axis and 3D cutting systems enhance precision for complex geometries, especially in high-tech industries such as electronics and defense.
• Sustainability trends are opening new opportunities, with waterjet cutting favored for producing no heat-affected zones or harmful emissions, aligning with global green manufacturing goals.

A Look Back and a Look Forward - Comparative Analysis

The waterjet cutting machines market experienced steady growth from 2019 to 2024, expanding at a CAGR of around 5.7%. The COVID-19 pandemic led to temporary disruptions in 2020 due to lockdown and supply chain challenges. Recovery began in 2021 as key industries such as automotive and metal fabrication resumed operations, fueled by pent-up demand and increased automation. The market witnessed a shift toward robotic and 3D waterjet systems, with abrasive waterjets becoming popular for precision cutting.

The waterjet cutting machines market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% between 2025 and 2032, driven by rising automation and demand for eco-friendly cutting solutions. Advanced technologies such as 5-axis and robotic systems improve precision and productivity, particularly in aerospace and automotive applications. Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest growth rate, propelled by industrial expansion in emerging economies. Market dynamics will be shaped by sustainability trends and growing investments in infrastructure and electric mobility.

Key Growth Drivers

• Precision Cutting Demand Rises Across Automotive and Aerospace Sectors

The demand for high-precision cutting in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication is a key driver for the Waterjet Cutting Machines Market. These machines offer unparalleled accuracy, cutting materials such as titanium, composites, and glass without thermal distortion. In 2024, the automotive sector alone accounted over 35% of the market revenue, driven by the need for intricate automobile parts.

Waterjet systems, particularly abrasive types, enable complex designs with minimal material waste, aligning with industry demands for cost-efficiency. The integration of robotic systems enhances operational productivity, with a reported 45% increase in cutting speed for end-users adopting waterjet technology. This precision is critical in aerospace for components such as turbine blades and fuselages, where even minor errors can be costly. As industries prioritize high-quality outputs, waterjet cutting machines are increasingly favored over traditional methods.

• Advanced Automation and 5-Axis Systems Propel Market Efficiency

Technological advancements, such as 5-axis and robotic waterjet cutting systems, are significantly driving market growth. The introduction of multi-axis cutting heads and CNC integration has improved accuracy and reduced setup times. For instance, in 2023, Flow International launched the Mach 200c with bevel and five-axis functionalities, setting new benchmarks for intricate manufacturing. These innovations cater to industries requiring complex geometries, such as aerospace and automotive, which demand high tolerance cutting.

The adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, including IoT sensors for predictive maintenance, enhances machine efficiency and reduces downtime. In 2024, the waterjet cutting machines market for 3D waterjet cutting machines held a 40% share, reflecting their dominance due to enhanced capabilities. These advancements enable manufacturers to handle diverse materials, from metals to composites, boosting productivity. The trend towards automation aligns with the global push for smart manufacturing, further propelling market demand.

• Rising Industrialization Drives Global Demand for Waterjet Cutting Machines

Rapid industrialization in emerging economies, particularly in the Asia Pacific, is a major driver for the Waterjet Cutting Machines Market. Countries such as China and India are witnessing significant growth in manufacturing sectors, with China producing 996.3 million tons of crude steel in 2019, an 8% increase from 2018. This surge in metal production fuels demand for waterjet cutting machines for steel fabrication.

India’s manufacturing sector is projected to reach US$1 trillion by 2026-27, driven by initiatives such as Make in India, which promotes foreign direct investment in metalworking. The growing automotive and electronics industries in these regions rely on waterjet machines for precision cutting. Asia Pacific’s robust manufacturing base and increasing infrastructure projects, such as metro stations and power plants, further drive demand for waterjet technology. These factors make emerging economies key growth hubs for the market.

Key Growth Restraints

• High Equipment and Maintenance Costs Limit SME Adoption of Waterjet Machines

The high initial cost of waterjet cutting machines is a significant restraint, limiting adoption, particularly among small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Advanced systems such as 5-axis or robotic waterjet machines can cost upwards of US$100,000, making them a substantial investment. Additional expenses for maintenance, abrasives, and training further increase the total cost of ownership. In emerging economies, where budget constraints are common, SMEs often opt for cheaper traditional cutting methods such as plasma or laser, despite their limitations.

This cost barrier slows market penetration in price-sensitive regions such as parts of Latin America and the Middle East, where industrial automation is still developing. While the long-term benefits of waterjet cutting, such as reduced material waste and high precision, are significant, the upfront costs deter smaller players, impacting overall market growth.

• Shortage of Skilled Operators Slows Waterjet Technology Adoption in Developing Regions

The operation of waterjet cutting machines requires specialized training, and the lack of skilled operators is a notable restraint. These machines, especially advanced models with CNC and robotic systems, demand technical expertise for setup, programming, and maintenance. In emerging economies such as India and South Africa, the shortage of trained professionals’ hampers adoption.

For instance, the complexity of 5-axis waterjet systems requires operators with advanced CAD/CAM knowledge, which is scarce in developing regions. This skills gap leads to operational inefficiencies and increased downtime, discouraging potential buyers. Companies must invest in training programs, adding to costs. The lack of skilled labor particularly affects industries such as aerospace and automotive, where precision is critical, slowing market expansion in regions with less developed technical education systems.

Waterjet Cutting Machines Market Trends and Opportunities

• Sustainability Push Boosts Adoption of Eco-Friendly Waterjet Cutting Solutions

The increasing emphasis on sustainability presents significant opportunities for the Waterjet Cutting Machines Market. Waterjet cutting is an eco-friendly process, producing no heat-affected zones or hazardous fumes, unlike laser or plasma cutting. This aligns with global environmental regulations and the push for greener manufacturing practices.

In 2024, manufacturers such as Omax Corporation introduced systems such as OptiMAX, designed to reduce water and abrasive consumption, enhancing sustainability. The waterjet cutting machines market is expected to benefit from rising demand in industries such as automotive and electronics, where eco-conscious practices are prioritized.

For instance, the automotive sector’s shift towards electric vehicle production requires sustainable cutting solutions for lightweight materials such as composites. Europe’s stringent environmental policies further drive adoption, with the region projected to grow steadily through 2032. By catering to sustainability trends, manufacturers can capture a larger market share in environmentally conscious regions.

• Aerospace and Defense Sectors Drive Demand for Precision Waterjet Systems

The aerospace and defense sectors offer substantial growth opportunities for the waterjet cutting machines market due to their ability to cut complex materials such as titanium, composites, and Inconel with high precision. In 2023, Boeing delivered 136 commercial aircraft in Q2, a 4.6% increase from Q1, driving demand for waterjet systems in component fabrication. These machines are critical for producing turbine blades, jet engines, and fuselages, where accuracy is paramount.

The global aerospace industry’s investment in R&D and the rising production of military equipment, such as guided missiles, further fuel demand. North America, particularly the U.S., dominates this segment due to its established aerospace industry, holding a 30% market share by 2032. The adoption of 5-axis waterjet systems, which allow intricate 3D cutting, enhances their appeal in this sector. As defense budgets grow globally, waterjet cutting machines are poised for significant adoption in these high-value applications.

Segment-wise Trends & Analysis

• Abrasive Waterjets Lead While Non-Abrasive Systems Grow Fastest by Segment

The abrasive waterjet segment dominates the waterjet cutting machines market, holding over 80% share in 2024 due to its ability to cut high-strength materials such as titanium, granite, and composites. Its precision and versatility make it ideal for industries such as automotive and aerospace. The non-abrasive segment, however, is the fastest growing, driven by its use in cutting softer materials such as foam, rubber, and plastics, particularly in automotive interiors and packaging. Non-abrasive waterjets are cost-effective and environmentally friendly, aligning with sustainability trends. Their adoption is rising in emerging economies where cost sensitivity is high.

• 3D Waterjet Machines Dominate While Robotic Systems Witness Fastest Adoption Rate

The 3D waterjet cutting machines leads the product type segment, accounting for 40% of market revenue in 2025, due to their advanced five-axis capabilities for complex geometries. They are widely used in aerospace and automotive for intricate component fabrication. Robotic waterjet cutting machines are the fastest growing, with a projected CAGR of 7.5% through 2032, driven by automation trends and their ability to handle large-scale production with minimal human intervention. Their flexibility in accommodating various product sizes and integration with Industry 4.0 technologies boosts their adoption in metal fabrication and electronics.

• Automotive Industry Leads While Aerospace and Defense See Fastest Market Growth

The automotive industry dominates the end-use segment, holding a 36% market share in 2022, driven by demand for precision cutting of complex parts such as dashboards and lightweight composites for electric vehicles. The aerospace and defense sector is the fastest-growing, with a projected CAGR of 7.0% through 2032, fueled by increasing production of aircraft and military equipment. Waterjet machines’ ability to cut advanced materials such as titanium and carbon fiber without thermal damage makes them critical in this sector. Growth in North America and the Asia Pacific further supports expansion.

Regional Trends & Analysis

• North America Leads with Strong Aerospace and Automotive Industry Support

North America holds a 35% share of the waterjet cutting machines market by 2032, with the U.S. leading due to its robust aerospace, automotive, and metal fabrication industries. In 2023, the U.S. market grew at a 5.1% CAGR, driven by investments in automation and high demand for precision cutting in aerospace, where companies such as Boeing rely on waterjet systems for composite parts. The USMCA agreement boosts automotive production, further increasing demand for waterjet machines. Technological advancements, such as Omax’s OptiMAX system, enhance efficiency, supporting market growth. The presence of key players such as Flow International and Jet Edge strengthens the region’s dominance.

• Europe Driven by Automotive Manufacturing and Eco-Friendly Regulations

Europe is a significant market, with Germany and the U.K. leading due to their advanced manufacturing sectors. Germany’s automotive industry, producing over 3 million vehicles annually, drives demand for waterjet machines for precision cutting of lightweight materials. The U.K.’s focus on aerospace and defense, with companies such as BAE Systems, supports market growth. Europe’s stringent environmental regulations promote eco-friendly waterjet technology, with a projected steady growth through 2032. The region’s emphasis on replacing outdated machinery with advanced systems, such as robotic waterjets, further fuels demand.

• Asia Pacific Dominates with Fastest Growth and Expanding Industrial Base

The Asia Pacific waterjet cutting machines market holds the largest global share at 40% and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% through 2032, driven by strong industrial growth and infrastructure development. China leads the regional market due to its vast manufacturing base, having produced 996.3 million tons of crude steel in 2019. The automotive and electronics industries in China and other countries rely heavily on waterjet cutting for high-precision applications.

India and Southeast Asian nations are also witnessing rapid growth as foreign investments in manufacturing increase and demand for advanced cutting technologies rises. Urbanization and large infrastructure projects, including metro rail networks, airports, and industrial corridors, are boosting the need for efficient cutting solutions. The region’s growing focus on industrial automation, coupled with favorable government policies and competitive manufacturing costs, is further accelerating adoption. Asia Pacific is emerging as the central hub for both production and consumption of waterjet cutting machines.

Competitive Landscape

The global waterjet cutting machines market is fragmented, with major players such as Flow International, Omax Corporation, and KMT Waterjet competing alongside several regional manufacturers. These companies are focused on strengthening their market position through innovation, acquisitions, and strategic collaborations. Key strategies include developing energy-efficient and high-precision cutting systems, integrating automation technologies like CNC controls, and enhancing system compatibility with Industry 4.0 environments.

In addition to product innovation, leading players are expanding service offerings such as preventive maintenance, technical training, and remote diagnostics to improve customer retention. Regional players, particularly in the Asia Pacific and Europe, are intensifying competition by offering cost-effective machines and localized support. As end-user industries increasingly demand sustainable and smart manufacturing solutions, companies that deliver advanced, efficient, and eco-friendly waterjet systems are likely to maintain a competitive advantage in the evolving global market landscape.

Key Companies

• Flow International Corporation
• Omax Corporation
• KMT Waterjet Systems Inc.
• Jet Edge Inc.
• WardJet, Inc.
• Water Jet Sweden AB
• STM Waterjet GmbH
• Resato International BV
• Koike Aronson, Inc.
• ESAB Corporation
• Dardi International Corporation
• APW Waterjet
• Sugino Machine Ltd.
• WAZER Inc.
• Hornet Cutting Systems

Recent Industry Developments

• In December 2024, the system includes FlowMaster software, which eliminates the need for G-code programming and provides real-time job costing and automated path optimisation
• In July 2023, Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems announced plans to build a Customer Experience Center in Miamisburg, Ohio, to showcase its Kongsberg and MultiCam brands alongside the latest CNC machining and digital cutting technologies.

Global Waterjet Cutting Machines Market Segmentation

By Waterjet

• Abrasive
• Non-Abrasive

By Product Type

• 3D
• Micro
• Robotics

By End-use Industry

• Automotive
• Metal Fabrication
• Electronics
• Ceramics
• Paper
• Others

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa