Manufacturers and entrepreneurs who are new to the laser cutting process often have a range of questions about whether laser cutting services can benefit their operations. Laser cutting is ideal for metal fabrication, whether for small, intricate products or large-scale operations exceeding 1,000 units. It is the fastest, most efficient, and most accurate method available.
With that being said, there are many different types of laser cutting machines. In addition, determining the best laser cutters for varying types of materials and metals can be a challenging endeavor.
An expert resource like Steelway Laser Cutting can streamline the process. However, it’s helpful to understand the types of lasers and metals that can be effortlessly cut and fabricated when the best technology in the industry is utilized.
What Types of Lasers Are Used to Cut Metal?
The two types of lasers—CO2 lasers and fiber lasers — are commonly used in the metal fabrication process for advanced laser cutting.
CO2 lasers
CO2 lasers rely on a gas mixture consisting primarily of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other gases such as helium and nitrogen. In this process, the ensuing gas mixture produces a powerful laser beam that cuts through various metals and other materials.
CO2 laser cutting machines deliver high-quality laser beams, minimizing errors and enabling fast cutting speeds. This is why they are common in various manufacturing sectors. As a result, CO2 lasers are effective for most metals and other non-metal materials.
Fiber Lasers
In fiber lasers, rare earth elements dope the fiber to create the gain medium. These fibers and diodes generate a high-intensity laser beam that can slice through even the toughest metals and materials.
As such, fiber lasers are well-suited for completing complex or challenging endeavors in a short amount of time. For instance, working with thick or thin metals or creating highly detailed and specialized designs without variations or errors.
Can Your Laser Cut Aluminum?
When it comes to the question of, “can you laser cut metal,” the answer is a resounding yes! However, there may be caveats or considerations involved in specific and distinctive metal types.
Aluminum is a prime example. You can absolutely cut aluminum, but it requires a high level of expertise due to the reflective nature of aluminum. That is because it can disrupt the laser cutting process and even permanently damage the laser cutting machine.
The good news is that there are many ways to mitigate the challenges of laser cutting aluminum. For example, having access to a high-powered laser, knowing the correct power setting and speed (generally 10-20 mm/second), and relying on a fiber laser cutter to do the job can ensure an aluminum fabrication project runs smoothly from start to finish.
Can You Laser Cut Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is another common metal found in virtually every manufacturing industry. It can be easily cut with laser cutting technology, provided that the right tools and ample expertise are used during the process.
Again, a fiber laser is often considered the best laser cutting machine for stainless steel because it handles thicker, stronger, and more reflective materials.
During the cutting process itself, it is important to pay close attention to all aspects of the laser technology driving the stainless steel fabrication. This includes everything from choosing the right assist gas to examining the laser beam focus position to selecting the right cutting speed and power adjustments.
Ultimately, the most effective way to handle these steps is by partnering with an experienced laser cutting services provider. An expert like Steelway Laser Cutting has immediate access to the best technology, and decades of expertise to ensure that any hurdles or challenges are mitigated.
What is Metal Fabrication?
Lasers can cut metals of all varieties. However, what about the other processes needed to transform sheet metal into the parts and products we use every day?
This complete process is generally referred to as metal fabrication. It can certainly include cutting sheet metal, but it can also include other steps required for a manufacturing project, such as engraving, marking, hole punching, bending, or welding.
A laser cutter can conduct engraving and marking tasks as needed. Therefore, when it comes to post-production needs like welding or powder coating, a laser cutter can also ensure that these next steps are as easy and efficient as possible.
Examples of Laser Cutting and Metal Fabrication
For example, a laser cutting machine delivers the cleanest and most accurate metal cuts with no jagged edges, burrs, or imperfections. This precision makes other metal fabrication tasks much easier. These metal fabrication tasks include welding parts together to create a complete final product or adding a powder coating to increase durability and aesthetic value.
Basically, laser cutting compliments any and all metal fabrication needs, as it provides a solid foundation for any additional processes.
Contact Steelway Laser Cutting for Your Expert Laser Cutting Services in Philadelphia and Beyond
The best way to use the power and precision of laser cutting for metal parts and products is with the assistance of an expert like Steelway Laser Cutting.
Achieving perfect results requires ample expertise and cutting-edge technology. This is especially crucial for tougher materials like aluminum and stainless steel to ensure every design is crafted with absolute precision.
Partnering with a laser cutting expert like Steelway Laser Cutting is a stress-free and budget-friendly process.
We can lead the way when it comes to navigating even the toughest materials and intricate designs. Our clients often find that outsourcing their laser cutting needs results in improved operations and cost savings every step of the way.
Don’t start your next metal project without a conversation with Steelway Laser Cutting first.
We can provide you with the best technology and expertise available to ensure that all your metal cutting needs are met and that every ambitious manufacturing project can come to fruition.
Contact us today and send us your project details for a quote.