Laser cutting machines have evolved quite a bit since their debut in the 1960s. Since then, they have increased performance capabilities and expanded their availability. The most effective and efficient way to cut through a variety of materials is with CNC laser machines. From simple equipment fabrications to intricate industrial manufacturing, CNC laser machines can perform efficiently. In the past, they were only affordable for those with larger budgets. However, they are becoming a more affordable option for long-term manufacturing investments for companies of all sizes.
Steelway Laser Cutting has been working with laser cutting machines for years, and we’re experts in the industry. We work with all kinds of different metals but today we will explore what the CNC laser machine’s steel cutting capabilities is all about.
Working with steel is something we do every day, and we are confident in our services. If you are seeking guidance with steel cutting services, steel bending services, or steel welding services, Steelway Laser Cutting is your expert resource.
What is CNC Laser Cutting?
CNC laser cutting is a process done with the help of two machines working together. The first, the CNC (Computer Numerical Control), is a machine that uses smart software that digitally designs a 2D prototype. This computer program is used to create and edit the different customized designs before they are cut. Once the design process is complete, the CNC machine communicates with the laser cutting machines to create a component that will be cut.
The laser cutting device uses a concentrated beam of light to cut through various types of materials. It’s similar to sending a document from a computer to a printer, but instead of ink to paper, it releases a laser that cuts intricate shapes out of hard materials.
The CO2 Laser Cutting Machine
There are several types of laser cutting machines, each with its own capabilities depending on the material. The CO2 machine is the best option for working with steel in an industrial manufacturing setting. This is because steel is often very thick and requires a high-power cutting technique. CO2 machines give the power needed to cut through the thickest materials by using dioxide as a gas medium for focusing the laser beam. In addition, laser cutting can produce holes as small as a fifth of the thickness of the steel. This makes CO2 lasers the popular choice and primary machine used for industrial steel cutting.
Steel Cutting, Welding, and Bending with a CNC Machine
CNC laser machines can do more than cut steel. They are capable of bending and welding steel as well. Rather than cutting all the way through the metal, the laser beam can make dies on a piece of metal that allow it to bend easily without breaking. CNC laser bending and welding is a preferred method of assembly because no new material is introduced into the process.
Industries that Use Steel Cutting Services
The versatility of steel laser cutting has led it to be a popular fabrication process in a number of industries. Companies are continuing to choose laser cutting fabrication due to its ability to improve production speed and with high accuracy and efficiency.
Different types of industries include:
- Construction
- Military
- Contract Manufacturing
- Agricultural
Advantages of CNC Laser Cutting Machines
Versatility
A laser cutting machine saves time and money investing in many different machines because it can cut through a wide variety of materials. The design can twist and turn in intricate ways without jeopardizing the quality of the cut. This is because the laser beam cuts in a single direction rather than multiple angles.
Accuracy
CNC laser machines achieve great precision. The accuracy at which the laser melts and evaporates is incomparable to many other cutting methods. CNC laser machines can read and follow instructions up to a fraction of a millimeter. For example, some die-cutting tools have tolerance levels of about 1 to 3 mm, while laser cutters cut at accuracy as low as 0.003 mm.
Low Power Consumption
Laser cutters can successfully cut out pieces of material without using a lot of energy because they don’t need to move a lot of different components. While laser cutters can function with ten kW of energy, other machines can use up to five times that amount.
Minimal Waste
Due to the precision provided by laser cutting machines, the cutting process makes use of the entire work surface and leaves very little wasted material. As a result, you can estimate how much material you’ll need, knowing that you won’t take excess waste into account.
Improves Production Volume
The most time-consuming element will be the design process. After that, the laser machines work at tremendous speeds, allowing for high-volume production. The rate at which these machines work eliminates the need for technicians, making mass production an economical option.
Top Quality Service with Steelway Laser Cutting
Steelway Laser Cutting has been a leader in the metal cutting industry for two generations now. We have state-of-the-art machines that guarantee unparalleled accuracy and precision for even the most intricate designs. If you have your design ready, bring it to us, and let’s get started. Don’t let the manufacturing process stall your project. If you want to know if we’ll be able to help you, we can provide a complimentary quote and project plan as well.
Laser cutting machines are a big investment and require upkeep. This is not something that all companies are capable of doing because of either time or budget restraints. The smart choice for small-scale manufacturing companies who can’t invest in laser cutting machines is to outsource the work to a laser cutting professional like Steelway Laser Cutting. This is an excellent way to save money and still get the quality products that your business depends on.
Tell Us About Your Project
There is no job too big for Steelway Laser Cutting. We work with high-volume orders and can get the job done within the time frame allowed. Not only that, but we can help pack and deliver your products as well. All of this helps save you time so that you can focus on other important needs of your business.
We are a trusted company known for producing high-quality products in a fast and reliable way. Give us a call today to discuss the needs of your projects one-on-one with our experts. We can help you with all of your steel cutting, bending, and welding projects.