The demand for precision metal laser cutting is on the rise. Laser-fabricated metal parts and products are everywhere, from automobiles and electronics to homes and buildings, to more artistic items like outdoor décor and laser cut steel signs.
Therefore, with this rise in demand comes a new need for exceptional laser metal cutting services. Steelway Laser Cutting is your first and best option for time-tested and reliable laser cutting services in the Philadelphia area and beyond. Furthermore, it’s helpful to have a foundational understanding of what the process entails, and how a laser cutting machine for metal can enhance your designs and products.
Understanding Metal Cutting Technologies
Laser cutting technology is not new, and it was first introduced in the 1960s for aerospace initiatives. However, advancements over the past several decades have ushered in a new era of exceptional efficiency and precision for laser cutting metal.
A modern and advanced CNC laser cutting machine can handle the most intricate designs via a fast process, with no errors or alterations for every project.
Here is How the Laser Cutting Process Works
The process starts with a computer-generated design for the ensuing cuts, engravings, and other alterations to the metal part or product. These specifications are then fed to the advanced computer numerical control (CNC) laser cutting machine. Note that early in the process, there is little human involvement in design and instruction, and the laser cutting machine follows the specifications to the letter without deviation or without manual assistance or manpower.
During the cutting process, the intense heat of the laser beam vaporizes the sheet metal or sheet material, replicating the design again and again as many times as specified. There are no pauses in the process, and while experienced technicians are on standby to ensure the laser cutting operation runs smoothly, the laser machine can effectively continue running 24-7 until the work is complete.
Why Laser Cutting is so Effective
Compared to older, more traditional cutting methods, laser cutting is far more precise and more versatile. You can use a laser cutter for steel, aluminum, tougher metals like copper and brass, and even other non-metal materials like plastic and wood.
These enhanced results are due to a myriad of factors, starting with the technology-driven automation behind laser cutting, but it is primarily because of the intensity and focus of the laser beam.
Because there is no excess waste or molten material in laser cutting and exceptional levels of precision, there are no errors in each part or product, like warped material, jagged edges, or cuts that deviate from the original specifications. This is why laser cutting is effective for intricate décor items, like metal signs or artworks, and automobile and electronic parts that must perfectly fit with other mechanical pieces to create a whole product.
Types of Metals and their Cutting Techniques
Laser cutting machines can handle a versatile range of materials, but different techniques and methodologies may be involved for different types of metal. A couple of examples are as follows:
Laser Cutting Steel
There are many different types of laser cutting machines that can accomplish steel laser cutting, including fiber laser cutters, C02 laser cutters, and even plasma laser cutters. In addition, if you have the best technology and technicians behind the scenes, all these methods can be effective.
The key to laser cutting stainless steel is to have the most advanced laser cutting technology available, as well as expertise on the different factors that will dictate the success of the project. This includes ensuring the correct power settings and laser cutting speeds, confirming the optimal focal point positions, and choosing the best assist gas for the stainless steel material.
Laser Cutting Aluminum
Aluminum is another common metal found in a wide range of industries. It is best fabricated with laser cutting technology. Like stainless steel, laser cutting aluminum can have its suite of challenges, which can be mitigated with the best technology and best expertise.
Specifically, when it comes to aluminum, two primary challenges need to be overcome – the material’s thin nature and its reflectivity. Reflectivity is a common problem when it comes to laser cutting aluminum on more basic machines. As the laser beam makes contact with the shiny aluminum surface, it may bounce back or scatter, resulting in imperfections. (This can also damage the laser cutting machine itself.)
The best way to mitigate this problem is to use a top-rated laser cutting machine and expertly adjust the laser parameters to remove any obstacles to ensure perfect cuts.
Laser Cutting Other Metals and Materials
Most materials can be effectively fabricated with an advanced laser cutting machine, but expertise is key. Therefore, if you have a distinctive laser cut project that uses one or more different types of metals (or other materials), it’s best to consult with a professional laser cutting services provider to determine the best way forward without errors or interruptions in productivity.
Where Can I Get Metal Cut Near Me?
There are countless laser cutting service providers to choose from. However, to ensure exceptional results, you want to start with a laser cutting resource with decades of experience, the most advanced technology possible, and a client-focused business model that provides exceptional guidance and support at every step.
Get Started with a Quote from Steelway Laser Cutting
At Steelway Laser Cutting, we’ve assisted clients with all sorts of intricate metal cutting projects, from large-volume orders for some of the biggest industries in the world to more elaborate designs for specialized parts and products. Our in-depth knowledge and resources ensure that we can handle every project with efficiency and precision. We can also work with virtually every material, budget, and timeframe to exceed your expectations.
Reach out to us today and tell us about your metal cutting needs. Let’s discuss more about the designs you want to create.
With expert guidance and assistance behind the scenes, you’ll be amazed at the new metal projects and ventures you can bring to vivid life when you have access to the best laser cutting technology available.