You might want to consider laser metal cutting services if you want to cut a thin metal part. These services specialize in high-production runs and precision applications. They have extensive engineering, design, and tool fabrication capabilities. Some also offer ancillary services, such as laser welding, hermetic sealing, and leak testing. They’re dedicated to exceeding customer expectations and rapid quoting, and they’re certified to meet MIL-SPEC 45208A and NADCAP standards.
Non-ferrous metal
Non-ferrous metal laser cutting is a versatile technique for various applications. The process applies to multiple materials, from aluminum to copper to brass. As a result, the process is suitable for prototypes, low to high-volume production runs, and can even be used for aerospace.
A laser can easily cut metal shapes without metal cutting machines. The process is accurate and efficient, ensuring the most efficient use of material. It also reduces programming time, resulting in fewer downtimes. You can get precision and accuracy at a reasonable cost with laser metal cutting services.
Laser metal cutting services for non-ferrous materials are essential to industrial manufacturing processes. The most crucial step before the laser cutting process is choosing the suitable material for the job. The material’s thickness and other properties determine the type of cut required.
Thin metal
Laser metal cutting services offer several benefits over traditional methods, especially for thin metal cutting. For one thing, they can reduce the labor and maintenance required to operate classic metal cutting machines, requiring periodic blade replacement. Secondly, laser cutting involves very little force on the metal, which reduces the risk of damaging the sheet metal.
Laser cutting is also more efficient. It can cut metal with close tolerances and precision. However, this type of metal cutting is a good choice for projects that require tight tolerances and clean cuts.
Fiber laser
Fiber laser cutting services use a high-powered, focused laser beam to cut metal. The shaft is produced using stimulated emission of light from a laser diode. The light is then sent through a fiber optic cable and amplified. This high-intensity light melts the material. High-speed airflow then clears the debris.
The power of fiber lasers is constantly increasing, so a 10-12 kW fiber laser system can easily cut one-inch-thick aluminum. The laser power is expected to rise in the coming years, allowing for ever-larger cuts. Another advantage is that the power requirements are lower. Fiber lasers do not require optical mirrors, which are costly and fragile and need frequent replacement. That means lower costs and less hassle for you.
A fiber laser machine has a smaller footprint than a CO2 laser, so it can be installed in smaller spaces. Fiber lasers are also very efficient and can cut materials as thin as 25 mm. The only downside is that they use a lot of energy, costing you more money. On the other hand, a plasma machine can cut anything up to 80 mm thick. It also starts cutting material much faster than a laser.
CO2 laser
In contrast to traditional metal cutting methods, CO2 lasers provide better edge quality on metals such as stainless steel and aluminum-plated materials. These lasers are also more flexible and are therefore better suited for cutting a wide variety of materials. However, the drawbacks of using a CO2 laser are that they are more expensive to operate and requires a lot of maintenance. Moreover, these lasers are slower than fiber lasers, which translates into higher service costs.
The smallest fiber laser spot increases cutting speeds and minimizes kerf size. In addition, the fiber laser beam absorbs more energy and produces a smoother surface than the CO2 laser. A fiber laser also tends to cut thicker plates but needs to be balanced for good quality cuts with minimal dross and regular striations. Similarly, an HD plasma machine may be more suitable if you need a metal cut with a thickness of more than 10 mm. Plasma machines also tend to cut mild steel more quickly and offer a smoother edge.
CNC laser
Laser cutting is an excellent option if you’re looking for a way to make complex metal parts quickly. It’s quick, accurate, versatile, and particularly useful in the aerospace and general manufacturing industries. You can get pieces of the exact shape and size you want using laser cutting machines, whether they’re prototypes or production items. In addition, laser cutters can complete jobs quickly and often deliver them in as little as five business days.
Prices vary depending on the complexity of the order and material. The most basic services, such as cutting black metal, usually have the lowest costs: the more complex the order, the more expensive the laser metal cutting services. The thickness of the metal sheet has a bearing on the cost.