Laser cutting sheet metal is an intricate process that requires an unwavering focus on the details. From accounting for variations in the material (like laser cut aluminum versus laser cut stainless steel) to thoroughly assessing pre- and post-production steps for laser cut sheet metals, a wealth of expertise is required to ensure that all aspects of the process go smoothly.
Because of this literal laser focus on the details, plenty of common laser cutting mistakes can be made along the way, derailing small and large manufacturing ventures alike.
The best way to eliminate these potential mistakes is to partner with an expert like Steelway Laser Cutting. Cost-effective, efficient, and always precise, Steelway Laser Cutting has the technology, facilities, and decades of experience to ensure that every laser cutting project is conducted perfectly.
In the meantime, however, it is helpful to be on the lookout for these common laser cutting mistakes. These mistakes can routinely and regularly pop up when you don’t have a resource like Steelway Laser Cutting guiding the way.
1 – Ignoring Material Properties
The properties of the sheet metal that you need to cut will dictate many steps and settings in the laser cutting process.
- Understanding material properties: Each type of metal demands specific settings and handling during the laser cutting process. Ignoring these can lead to suboptimal outcomes or even damage your equipment.
- Challenges with aluminum: Because of its lightweight and highly reflective nature, aluminum poses specific challenges in laser cutting. Improper calibration or the use of an inferior laser cutter can damage not only the material but also the machine itself.
- Adjustments for Stainless Steel: This material’s toughness and thickness require careful adjustments to the laser cutting machine’s settings. Not every machine can handle such demands, highlighting the importance of using the right tools for the task.
When in doubt, consult with a resource like Steelway Laser Cutting to understand how the varying raw materials can impact the laser cutting process.
2 – Using the Wrong Laser Settings
The settings on the laser cutting machine will influence the outcomes of metal fabrication, whether you need to cut, mark, engrave, or perform all these tasks.
For example, when it comes to laser cutting stainless steel, the optimal and recommended laser cutter settings are 500-1,000 watts of power, a .010-.014-inch focus of the laser beam, and a speed of roughly 40-100 inches per minute.
Keep in mind that these specifications can also vary widely, based on the laser cutter itself. An advanced and cutting-edge laser cutting machine, (like the ones used by Steelway Laser Cutting) can often have more generous parameters when it comes to the diameter and focus of the cut., Also, it can laser cut metals of all varieties and fabricate them in a faster amount of time.
3 – Overlooking Design and File Preparation
Creating the design for the laser cutting project is the first and most important step of the process, and it dictates the success of the entire endeavor.
The top laser cutters and laser cutting service providers rely on computer- aided design (CAD) software to create the desired specifications. This is the best way to ensure that all of the details are exact and accounted for.
Make sure the design files are vector- based and watch out for small mistakes in the design file that can affect the laser cutting, such as overlapping lines, incorrect scaling, or incomplete paths.
When in doubt, starting with a prototype or an initial sample is helpful when undergoing a mass-production of laser cut parts or products. This way, you can ensure that the laser cuts align perfectly with the original design, and that there are no deviations that can cause large issues down the road.
4 – Neglecting Material Preparation
You want your raw materials to be perfectly clean before the laser cutting process begins to ensure that your sheet metal and end products are free of imperfections.
Dirt, oil, or rust on a metal surface can interfere with laser performance. You’ll also want to ensure that the sheet metal is fully secure before cutting. Failing to secure the sheet metal can result in shifting during the cutting process, which leads to all kinds of imperfections.
5 – Not Accounting for Post-cutting Processes
An expert like Steelway Laser Cutting ensures that every part or product is perfectly cut, but if you are using a more basic or substandard laser cutter, there may be some issues with the finished products.
Burrs or rough edges are common when it comes to aluminum or stainless steel laser cutting with subpar machines, and surface discoloration or heat marks can also easily occur on thinner sheet metals.
To avoid these mistakes, based on material, try the following:
- Stainless steel – use nitrogen for cleaner cuts and reduced oxidation
- Aluminum – adjust settings to minimize burr formation
- Sheet metal – optimize cutting speed and power to avoid excessive heat marks
A finishing step like powder coating can also minimize discolorations and other aesthetic issues. It can also make your end products more durable, especially if they spend their lifetime of use outside or in extreme temperatures and elements.
Avoid All Mistakes in Laser Cutting with an Expert like Steelway Laser Cutting
Remember that you don’t have to tackle all the intricate steps and details alone when it comes to small and large laser cutting projects.
You can eliminate all these mistakes when your partner with an expert resource for your laser cutting needs, like Steelway Laser Cutting.
We have decades of experience and the industry’s best and most technologically advanced laser cutting machines. In addition, we are a client-focused team of technicians and experts who will ensure that every project meets and exceeds expectations.
Discover how you can bring even the most complex and intricate designs to life (with the toughest metal materials) when you have an expert resource like Steelway laser Cutting guiding the way.
Ready to elevate your projects with unmatched precision?
Contact us today to explore how our expertise in laser cutting in Pennsylvania can help you achieve perfect results every time.