Sheet metal can be cut very effectively by laser cutting. This method provides benefits that cannot be obtained from other methods of cutting sheet metal. It is important to compare the capabilities of the tool to the project’s requirements when selecting a cutting process for sheet metal. Laser cutting is typically the most effective choice for many sheet metal projects.
Cutting with lasers ensures precise, clean cuts without the expense or time of further processing. This is ideal for cutting carbon and stainless steel sheet metal. Large runs benefit from the fast, repeatable, and most accurate process.
Laser cutting for sheet metal fabrication offers the following benefits:
- There is no physical contact with the metal sheet
- Minimal warping due to a tiny heat zone
- Precision Cutting
- Capability to cut complex contours
- Ability to handle intricate shapes
- Quiet
- Maintaining a clean edge
- Narrow Kerf
Cutting with lasers offers a variety of benefits. Affordable prices, high efficiencies, fast speed, higher quality cuts, and the best possible precision are often the top reasons customers choose laser cutting.
1. An affordable price
Laser cutting utilises computer numerical control (CNC) for cutting sheet metal. CNC is an automated process: The computer controls the laser. It is not necessary for an operator to perform the operation, but simply plug in the specifications. Once the specifications are entered, the computer performs the rest.
Additionally, lasers do not dull. Due to the heat it generates, lasers emit a focused beam of light that can cut. Due to the absence of mass, light does not wear down over time.
In a traditional cutting tool, a blade wears down with use, much like a knife, requiring additional maintenance and repair costs. Therefore, laser cutting is both easier and more efficient than traditional cutting, plus it has a lower cost.
2. Speed and efficiency
Cutting with lasers is faster and more precise than cutting with blades. Lasers can cut at a rate of more than 20 meters per minute. The laser’s speed is determined by the complexity and tolerances of the sheet metal. The speed of lasers can be increased no matter how intricate or tolerable the sheet metal is by using multi-head razors or several lasers working together.
The automated nature of laser cutters also allows them to work at night even when operators are not present. With this 24/7 capability, laser sheet metal cutting becomes even more efficient and fast.
3. Quality Enhancement
The benefits of CNC automation go beyond reducing lead times. Computer-controlled processes also produce minimal variation when compared to non-automated ones. This results in a lower defect rate and higher quality cutting.
4. High levels of precision
Laser cutters are capable of cutting extremely fine detail. With laser cutters, you can make the smallest possible cuts within the tightest tolerances.
Laser cutters are a good option when intricate cuts are needed. They produce clean, precise edges. Additionally, there is minimal burning, since the laser melts the material instead of cutting it. Lasers are appropriate for cutting sheets of metal that need to be precise, accurate, due to their precision.
Summary
For sheet metal cutting projects, CNC laser cutting offers outstanding performance. Short lead times are made possible by lasers’ automation and low maintenance requirements. Additionally, lasers are highly precise, providing levels of precision that cannot be achieved with other methods. As a result, high-quality cutting is achieved at a low cost with a short lead time. What could be better than that?
Plasma cutting is known for its ability to cut ferrous and non-ferrous materials, often at speeds faster than oxyfuel.
| Omnidex Laser is always excited to work with our customers and to meet each of their project’s requirements and specifications. |
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