Laser cutting has certainly changed since it was first introduced in the 1960s. In our modern era, when it comes to metal cutting, laser cutting machines are the preferred vehicle for manufacturers in all sectors. Metal laser cutting is versatile and capable of creating custom cut metal signs for decorative, functional purposes, and custom cut aluminum sheets for automobiles and construction. Its effectiveness is maximized when a highly skilled and established custom laser cutting services provider provides the right direction.
So, how does laser cutting work, and how has sheet metal laser cutting expanded and evolved over the years? Let’s look at what modern laser cutting machines can accomplish and how to use these technological advancements in your business.
What is Metal Laser Cutting?
Sheet metal laser cutting is the dominant metal fabrication technique in industrial manufacturing. Laser cut metal can be found in limitless objects and materials that are part of everyday life, from the cars we drive to the homes we live in and the electronic devices that power our work and social lives.
Laser cut metal is so prominent because the laser cutting process is one of the fastest and most seamless options for cutting, shaping, or fabricating sheet metal. Unlike older cutting machines, with laser cutting, the heat of a laser beam effectively vaporizes the sheet metal material, creating perfect cuts and minimizing waste. The entire operation is fast and can be replicated perfectly repeatedly, ensuring a superior product or metal part in a cost-effective process.
Metal Laser Cutting Machines
Over the past few decades, the variety of laser cutting machines – and how they work – has expanded rapidly. A few of the most popular and reliable laser cutting machines used in today’s manufacturing processes are listed below.
Co2 Laser Cutting Machines
Co2 laser cutting machines have been in use since the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s and 1990s that they became more visible in manufacturing. Today, C02 laser cutting machines remain popular with businesses of all sizes –especially smaller companies or manufacturers that require modest production runs – because they can be inexpensive and handle a wide array of materials.
Fiber Laser Cutting Machines
A fiber laser cutting machine amplifies the power of the laser beam with special glass fibers, and fiber laser cutting machines are known for their durability and ability to cut tougher pieces of sheet metal and other materials, including glass, plastic, and even wood.
Crystal Laser Cutting Machines
Crystal laser cutting machines come in two forms: Nd:YAG (neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet) and Me:YVO (neodymium-doped yttrium ortho-vanadate, YVO4) crystals. Though both are known for their high power and are exceptional at cutting both coated and uncoated metals of varying thickness, crystal laser cutting machines can be expensive to purchase in-house. They may also be less effective than their counterparts (like fiber laser cutters).
Regardless of the exact laser cutting machine used in manufacturing, a key innovation that has changed the process is the introduction of CNC (computer numerical controlled) laser cutting.
The Impact of CNC Laser Cutting
A CNC cutting machine is a laser cutting machine that utilizes optics, an assist gas, and a guidance system that directs the laser beam into the sheet metal or workpiece to create the desired cuts, bends, and engravings. The hands-off process that relies on computer aided design (CAD) software to create the specifications and guidelines requires little human involvement and is fast and reliable, with perfect results every time.
Simply put, when the most modern laser cutting machines are utilized in manufacturing operations, companies across the board enjoy a faster production time, less waste, fewer errors, and better results. As such, a CNC laser cutter can be utilized in virtually any business to increase productivity in every way.
What Are the Key Factors that Influence Cut Quality?
Bear in mind that while laser metal cutting technology has grown by leaps and bounds over generations of advancements, there are a few factors that will determine the overall quality of your manufacturing processes.
- The machine itself – The type of laser cutting machine will determine how quickly and efficiently manufacturing operations can be conducted. For example, certain types of laser cutting machines may not be able to perform cuts on thicker metals, like brass, copper, or coated steel, while others may only handle small projects at a time. At Steelway, we use first-class machines from the TruLaser series 1000 that can cut a wide variety of materials into individual and distinctive shapes. In our decades of experience, we’ve found that these machines optimize the manufacturing process to make every project more reliable, high-quality, and cost-efficient.
- Expertise – When it comes to operating modern laser cutting machines, a highly specialized technician is required. For example, we have two certified laser operators at Steelway to ensure that every project is perfect from start to finish.
- Environment – As one would expect, laser cutting machines are delicate, with multiple moving parts, so having a clean environment is key to facilitating the highest quality cuts. Unfortunately, not all companies possess state-of-the-art and idealized facilities for pristine laser cutting operations. Therefore, many manufacturers outsource their laser cutting projects to ensure the work takes place in the best, cleanest environment possible.
Take Advantage of the Innovations in Laser Cutting with Steelway Laser Cutting
Most manufacturers do not have the in-house facilities, specialized and certified laser operators, and pristine facilities required to use innovative laser cutting technology to the fullest. Therefore, this is why an expert resource is necessary.
Outsourcing laser cutting projects provides an affordable solution, enabling businesses of all sizes to utilize modern and powerful laser cutting machines. This approach avoids the substantial expenses of purchasing and operating these machines independently.
If you want access to the best laser cutting technology available, then it’s time to connect with our team at Steelway. With our expertise and technology at your disposal, your business can enjoy a new level of efficiency, productivity, and production in every manufacturing project you need, both now and well into the future.