Steelway Laser Cutting FAQ
Laser cutting is an advanced cutting process for sheet metal and other materials that was first introduced in the 1960s. However, this has now become mainstream for multiple manufacturing industries. Laser cutting allows manufacturers to create perfectly cut parts and products. Moreover, it is the preferred method when it comes to precise results across all industries.
Common industries that use laser cutting in their manufacturing include the automobile industry, construction, electronics, medical supply industry, and much more. Simply put, laser cutting replaces traditional cutting methods by saving time and costs on excess waste and production and increases efficiency.
The laser cutting process begins with CAD (computer-aided design) software that creates the specifications for the cuts, bends, or engravings required. A Computer Numeric Control laser cutter, also known as a CNC laser cutting machine, then uses this software-generated guidance to direct and focus a laser beam into the workpiece. The laser beam cuts the metal based on the specifications through burning, melting, or vaporizing, resulting in a perfectly constructed metal part or product without excess material or waste.
Laser cutting has a wide range of benefits as opposed to older or more traditional cutting methods. One of the top advantages is precision. Laser cutting machines can create the most detailed and minute cuts to varying metals of all thickness – from aluminum to bronze or copper – resulting in a better outcome for a product or part.
Another major advantage is efficiency. Since the laser beam does all the work, with little human involvement, it’s easy to repeat the process time and again without error for projects of 1,000 units or more.
Virtually all metals can be cut when a laser cutting services provider starts with the best laser cutting machines available. This list includes, but is not limited to, aluminum, brass, copper, stainless steel, mild steel, steel with oxidized surfaces, and much more. In addition, laser cutting can also be used for other non-metal materials, like wood, acrylic, and even glass.
Sheet metal laser cutting is a common process in manufacturing industries across all sectors. In this process, the laser cutting machine uses CAD software to cut, form, bend, and/or combine sheets of metal into a stand-alone product or part. The sheet metal laser cutting process can be used with various metals, like stainless steel, mild steel, aluminum, copper, brass, etc.
A wide variety of software and technological tools are used to create designs for laser cutting machines, including CorelDRAW software, AutoCAD software, GRBL firmware, and other programs that create the initial and detailed instructions. At Steelway, our laser cutting machines start with a “Cut Ready” DXF file, which also allows us to give an accurate quote for new projects of all varieties.
Laser cutting and laser engraving are two processes that are inherently similar. In laser cutting, the laser beam melts or vaporizes the material away from a workpiece or metal sheet in order to produce cuts, edges, etc. In contrast, laser engraving may come into play to create designs like logos, barcodes, or special instructions on appliances, construction materials, and other metal products.
Plasma cutting and laser cutting both use CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining processes to cut materials, and they are both thermal processes that are used in a wide range of industrial settings. The primary difference between the two technologies and processes is the source of the power.
Laser cutting machines use a narrow and intense beam of light to vaporize and effectively cut materials. On the other hand, plasma cutting machines use a directed flow of plasma in order to cut workpieces.
The CNC in “CNC laser cutting” refers to Computer Numerical Control, which is the guiding hand that dictates the laser cutting process. Therefore, once the computer-aided design has been fed to the laser cutting machine, the laser cutting machine uses the computer controller or control box to guide the laser onto each surface, metal sheet, or working material.
Powder coating is a finishing process that makes products or parts more durable and/or decorative. Effectively, powder coating entails a finishing process where dry, free-flowing, thermoplastic, or thermoset powder coat material is evenly applied to a metal or other material surface.
Laser engraving is a technique similar to laser cutting but with a few key differences. Instead of vaporizing and completely removing elements of a piece of sheet metal or other material, laser engraving uses the laser beam to create etchings or indentations in order to create intricate designs. Laser engraving is a popular method for applying essential information onto a product or part, like a barcode, a company’s logo, and instructions on an appliance or automobile part.
Yes. As a matter of fact, we can easily and accurately cut 1/8″ holes in 1/4″ steel. Whatever your needs are, there’s almost nothing we can’t cut accurately.
Yes. If products are going to be powder coated after cutting, we can cut with nitrogen to give you a clean edge. This will ensure a smoother, crisper finish.
Certainly! We have etching capabilities on our laser and can add part numbers, discreet text, or other shapes, icon, or indicators.
Yes. There is a minimum order of $500.
Average Lead Time is between 5-14 business days upon reception of material. (Depending on job size.)
A “Cut Ready” DXF file is needed to get an accurate quote.
Yes. It will need to be highly detailed with dimensions for every aspect of the part. There will be additional charges where applicable.
If an order is cancelled before production or before materials are purchased by Steelway, there will be no cancellation charge.
If an order is cancelled during or after production is completed or after materials are purchased by Steelway, the Customer will incur total cost of materials and labor for the percentage of the job completed with an additional Cancellation Charge of $200.
Yes. You can pick your order up from our shop located at 290 E. Church Rd. King of Prussia, PA 19406.
Steelway has the right to update a quote price per any quantity/part size/material change requested by the customer.