Sheet metal is a material that is used in manufacturing industries around the world. From forming the bodies of automobiles, airplanes, and construction equipment, to playing an intricate role in home manufacturing, sheet metal is essential for thousands of products consumers use daily.
When it comes to cutting, bending, and molding sheet metal into the exact shape required for manufacturing processes, regardless of the industry, precision is key. Therefore, laser cutting is generally considered one of the best resources for many fabrication projects that utilize sheet metal, from intricate but essential parts to significant components of products.
What is Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) Laser Cutting?
CNC laser cutting is a thermal process often used in sheet metal processing. A software program is utilized to communicate with the laser machine and provide detailed instructions on the work. During the procedure, an intensely focused and highly accurate laser beam is directed at a piece of metal to cut or bend it to the required shape. Meanwhile, the cutting process generates metal vapor and melt, which are removed from the work area with a high-pressure gas stream to amplify precision. The process is fast and hands-free, which makes it resilient to human error.
The process has been around for decades, and at Steelway Laser Cutting, we have been manufacturing since 1963. Our TruLaser 1030 fiber lasers and 3100 press brake machines allow our experienced technicians to accurately cut and bend your sheet metal components, in a timely and effective manner.
What Are the Advantages of Using CNC Laser Cutting for Sheet Metal?
Efficiency and speed
One of the most significant advantages of laser cutting for sheet metal applications is speed, and the lack of manmade hurdles or setbacks that can slow down your manufacturing process. Lasers can move through sheet metal and other products at a rate of 20-70 inches per minute for thicker material, and up to 1200-1600 inches per minute for thinner material. This all depends on the intricacy of the cut or bend, making the process fast.
More importantly, laser cutting is a hands-off process, which means the laser can work throughout the day and even overnight to get the job done. Once the specifications have been identified and the cutting is in process, there is no chance of human error, as the cutting or bending is completely reliant on the software, and the machine. This means you won’t have to worry about delays due to a mistake or error during the cutting process. Therefore, you can have your sheet metal materials reliably processed within a short and concrete timeframe.
Cost-effective
Laser cutting is often the most cost-effective means of processing sheet metal, compared to other cutting procedures. Moreover, the labor costs are minimal since no additional operation is required – the laser simply does the work. Another reason it saves you money is because the lasers are not subject to wear and tear and do not get dull or worn out like other, less-modern cutting devices. This means that no excess maintenance costs are required to complete a project. With better productivity, minimal interruptions in the work, and limited manual labor required, the cost savings add up in a laser cutting project.
Versatility
Sheet metal is a dynamic material used in all sorts of manufacturing applications and industries. This is why laser cutting is a good fit for all types of projects. Since CNC laser cutters are so precise, they can handle the most intricate details of a project, creating clean edges and curves or whatever the task requires. Both cutting and bending can be accomplished with ease, and because the process is computer-controlled down to the smallest details, (like exact velocity and positioning), the results are consistently accurate.
Achieve Accuracy with Steelway Laser Cutting
At Steelway Laser Cutting, we have worked with clients in all industries who need precise cutting work for all varieties of materials, including sheet metal. Our specialized facility offers state-of-the-art technology, and a team of experts including two certified laser operators. Our experts can handle any sheet metal-based project, no matter how large or small.
Get started on your project quote and partner with an industry leader that will make your sheet metal manufacturing easier from the initial specifications to the final cut. Reach out to us today.