Manufacturers and consumers are taking a heightened interest in environmentally sustainable practices, even when it comes to fabricating sheet metal. Metal laser cutting services are no surprise and are one of the best options for sustainability in everyday operations.
Laser cutting materials is an intricate and highly accurate process. Additionally, a laser cutting machine for metal and other raw materials can enhance your productivity and your business in more ways than one. When it comes to moving towards more environmentally friendly practices and procedures, using a laser cutter for metal, or a laser cut sheet metal service provider like Steelway Laser Cutting is an effective move that will also improve your bottom line.
How Laser Cutting Works vs Traditional Metal Cutting Processes
Laser cutting uses advanced technology – and specifically CNC programming and computer- aided design – to make intricate cuts to various types of sheet metal and other materials. During the process, the heat of the laser beam effectively vaporizes the workpiece, leaving no debris or excess waste behind. The laser cutting process is both fast and automated. Therefore, the designs can be replicated again and again, with no deviation from one part or product to the next.
This is the most basic definition of how laser cutting works. However, some factors will determine the success of every project. For example, having access to the best and most advanced laser cutting machines, the most experienced technicians, and a state-of-the-art facility all contribute to exceptional and reliably consistent results.
Why Laser Cutting is a Sustainable Manufacturing Method
There are several reasons why laser cutting is a better and more sustainable option for manufacturing processes, including the following.
- High level of accuracy – The laser beam is highly focused. This means there is an enormous degree of accuracy, even when it comes to the most intricate and complicated designs. As a result, more sheet metal workpieces can be used in every project, resulting in less waste and/or excess scraps of metal.
- Automation – Most of the laser cutting process is automated, meaning that any human errors during the process are virtually eliminated. Unlike traditional cutting methods, where mistakes can naturally be made, like imprecise cuts or scorching, the laser cutting machine requires minimal direction. It is guided by computer numerical control to ensure a repetition of perfect cuts.
- Less power – The laser cutting machine requires less power to cut through materials than other cutting methods. This alone makes it a better choice when it comes to sustainability and energy use.
- Less waste across the board – From the ability to utilize more of every piece of sheet metal to the elimination of errors in cutting parts or products, using laser cutting technology automatically results in less waste. This means that manufacturers save money, as they can make the most out of their raw materials, but it also means that laser cutting is essentially a greener process.
Why Does It matter that Laser Cutting is a More Sustainable Process
There are several benefits for companies and manufacturers who want to opt for a more sustainable way of fabricating and cutting metal. The reasons why an organization may switch to laser cutting technology for manufacturing operations include the following.
Adheres to government or industry regulations
Many industries have guidelines or regulations in place for sustainable practices when it comes to manufacturing processes. In addition, laser cutting is a great way to adhere to higher accountability and transparency if any restrictions are in place.
Creates a consumer-friendly initiative to go greener
The public’s desire for greener and more sustainable options is growing. In a 2020 McKinsey US consumer sentiment survey, more than 60 percent of respondents said they’d pay more for a product with sustainable packaging or other features. A more recent 2023 study by NielsenIQ found that 78 percent of US consumers say a sustainable lifestyle is important.
In other words, the public is paying attention to sustainability and has a preference for companies that are taking steps to adopt sustainable practices. By utilizing laser cutting as a manufacturing method, companies can be transparent and vocal about their commitment to greener operations, and garner public appreciation as a result.
Helps reach carbon reduction targets
Governments around the world are starting to target high-energy industries to achieve carbon reduction targets for 2050. Therefore, adopting laser cutting technology allows manufacturers to get ahead of the movement, in case additional energy-reducing measures are required in the future.
Saves money
Producing less waste and fewer mistakes equals cost savings. As a result, manufacturers can use more of the raw material to cut and create a higher volume of parts and products. Simply put, reducing waste doesn’t just benefit the environment. It also benefits a company’s budget, as there is a significant reduction in mistakes and miscalculations.
Where Can I Find Laser Metal Cutting Services Near Me?
Laser cutting technology is a more sustainable choice than older techniques. However, companies may struggle to find access to the best laser cutting technology without investing in facilities, advanced laser cutting machines, and the technicians required to power the process behind the scenes.
This is where Steelway Laser Cutting can make your life easier
When it comes to laser cutting near Philadelphia region and beyond), there is no better resource than Steelway Laser Cutting. We have decades of experience in all the variations of the laser cutting process, and we have access to the best laser cutting machines available, which are housed within our specifically designed facilities to achieve the best results possible. We work with virtually every type of material and have highly trained technicians continually on hand to ensure that the laser cutting process runs smoothly from start to finish.
Best of all, even with shipping included, the manufacturing costs and timeframe are noticeably less than conducting laser cutting or other cutting operations in-house.
Discover How Metal Laser Cutting Can Elevate Your Sustainability Efforts
Reach out to us today to discuss more about how partnering with Steelway Laser Cutting can make your organization more sustainable and environmentally friendly. With an expert resource and access to the most advanced laser technology available, you’ll discover how easy it is to go greener by revolutionizing your manufacturing techniques.
Are you ready to embrace sustainability with metal laser cutting?