When it comes to custom cut metals that can be shaped into precise parts for manufacturing projects, laser cutters are the most technologically advanced tools available. Laser cutting for metal is not a new process. The advancements over the past few decades have made the precision laser cutting process more adaptable, with multiple industries using precision laser cutting to meet their needs.
From the construction and automotive industries to the world’s top aerospace programs, here are the manufacturing projects that can benefit from modern laser cutting and the different tools available for your unique requirements.
General Advancements in Laser Cutting Technology
Laser cutting was first introduced to the world in the 1960s when Kumar Patel was at Bell Labs. He launched a machine that was eventually used by the U.S. space program. The early laser cutting materials that could be tackled with this “new” technology were limited (with the earliest experiments of laser cutting performed on sheet metals), and the process required a lot of power – and time – to complete.
However, improvements were steadily made over the following decades once the technology was introduced. The development of CO2 lasers in the 1970s ushered in a new era of research and advancements. By the 1980s, laser cutters were efficient enough to move out of the military, research, and government spheres and into the manufacturing mainstream.
Fiber lasers were introduced in the 2000s. Furthermore, computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software changed the game by making the process even faster, more accurate, and free of human error.
Today, laser cutters are considered the best option for all varieties of manufacturing projects, as modern laser cutters can tackle a wide array of materials, processes, and specialized cuts or bends.
Types of CNC Laser Cutting Machines
In our modern era, laser cutters that are best for larger industrial projects are known as CNC (computer numerical control) laser cutters. This type of machine uses a computer-generated design to direct a powerful laser beam to automatically imprint, cut, slice, and carve varying materials to exact specifications. All CNC laser cutting machines can handle a range of manufacturing projects. However, three main types that are generally utilized in various industrial sectors today.
CO2 Laser Cutters
CO2 lasers send an electrical current through a glass tube that is filled with CO2 as well as other gases (such as oxygen and nitrogen). Two mirrors are located at the end of the glass tube, and the electricity triggers the gases. As a result, it causes them to create light and bounce around the mirrors until the designed cuts are made on the laser cutting materials.
Fiber Laser Cutters
In fiber laser cutters, a laser is generated via an optimal fiber, and no support gases are needed. These laser cutters use rare earth materials to function and can be expensive machines to make or purchase, but they are very efficient and precise.
Crystal Laser Cutters
Crystal laser cutters are often used for dense materials, and the light beams utilized by crystal laser cutters are formed by crystallites such as neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet and neodymium-doped yttrium ortho-vanadate. Like other CNC laser cutting machines, crystal laser cutters are generally expensive for an individual company to purchase and acquire. However, they are powerful tools that can tackle virtually any material.
Purposes of Laser Cutting Technology
There are multiple industries that put modern laser cutting techniques to good use. Here is a sample of the varying sectors that can benefit from modern laser cutting technology.
- Automotive Manufacturing
- Since automotive manufacturing requires multiple intricate parts that must all fit and work together. Therefore, laser cutting is ideal for producing large batches of perfectly cut parts every time.
- Aerospace Industry
- Like the automotive industry, the parts required for the aerospace industry require the highest levels of precision to be effective. The aerospace industry was also one of the first sectors to utilize laser cutters on a routine basis, starting in the 1960s.
- Metal Fabrication
- Any industry that requires custom cut materials, like the construction industry, electronics industry, and more, should consider laser cutting as their go-to process for projects of all sizes. Custom metal designs can be easily generated and deployed. Thanks to both the software that powers the design and the machine, little human involvement is involved, minimizing the risk of errors.
How to Launch Manufacturing Projects with Laser Cutting Machines
Modern laser cutting machines are the best option for manufacturers who want to achieve the highest levels of reliability, productivity, and results. However, the cost of acquiring a laser cutting machine is prohibitive. As a result, very few corporations have the budget required to maintain the machine and hire the necessary specialist engineers to conduct laser cutting operations on a regular basis.
This is why many businesses of all sizes turn to an outside resource for laser cutting projects. An experienced laser cutting provider can handle projects of all volumes and specifications and provide exceptional results within a given timeframe. As a result, they help with increasing a company’s efficiency across the board.
You can start to explore your options for laser cutting with a basic search like “custom metal cutting near me” and then filter down your options. However, the best way to find a laser cutting partner is to start with an expert in the field.
Achieve Your Manufacturing Goals with Our Laser Cutting Experts
At Steelway Laser Cutting, we have had generations of experience working with manufacturing projects of all varieties, and as laser cutting technology has advanced, so have our tools and our knowledge.
We can manage multiple high-volume orders of 1,000 units per project. Our machinery is well equipped with the latest technology to deliver the best products and services available. With two certified laser operators and an in-house specialized facility with state-of-the-art technology, we’re ready to handle any manufacturing project our clients need.
Reach out to our team today to learn more about our laser cutting services and how we can put them to work for your business.
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the benefits of modern laser cutting, but you should have an expert at your side to ensure the best results possible.