In today’s modern manufacturing world, precision and efficiency are paramount. That’s why choosing the right metal-cutting process is an important step in making sure your project gets off to a good start. At D&M, we use Fiber Laser Cutting, which is considered the best method for metal cutting in the industry; there are other options available, such as CO2, Plasma Cutting and Water Jet Cutting methods. In this latest blog post, we will look at what laser cutting is, its benefits, and why it is used compared to alternative methods.
What is Laser Cutting?
Laser cutting is the process of directing a focused, high-powered laser beam through a machine controlled by CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) or G-Code onto a material that is then burnt, melted or vaporized to create clean-cut lines. Once the beam has completely penetrated and removed the material, it will begin the cutting process of separating the material and following the pattern set out for it.
Benefits of Fibre Laser Cutting
Precision Cutting – Cleaner Cut Edges
Due to their non-contact cutting method, the focused beam only touches a small surface area, meaning they produce much more precise cuts and can cut intricate designs easily. The beam focus allows for tighter tolerances than other cutting methods, enabling improved cut quality and cleaner edges
High speed
Fiber lasers are known for their speed. The speed of the job varies based on the material being cut and the intricacy of the design, but it is known that fibre laser cutters can cut material in a fraction of the time it takes other more traditional methods of cutting, such as plasma cutting and CO2 cutting. They possess a higher density beam than CO2 lasers, meaning they can cut through the material much quicker and don’t require a warm-up time before cutting.
Repeatability
Once a cutting program has been run and optimised, it can be run repeatedly, consistently delivering the same high-quality results. This level of repeatability helps reduce waste and enhance overall productivity. It enables you to run high-volume production runs time and time again.
Sheet utilization
Fiber laser cutting uses nesting in the cutting process. This is the process of laying out the parts on the sheet in the most effective way, drastically reducing sheet wastage. When combined with clean cuts, fibre lasers can drastically reduce sheet wastage, enabling you to cut parts out more effectively.
Different Types of Cutting
Plasma Cutting vs Fiber Laser Cutting
Plasma cutting is cheaper than fiber laser cutting and is great for cutting thicker materials. It can also cut a wide variety of materials; however, it isn’t as precise or versatile as fiber laser cutting, with lower quality edge cutting, and it leaves larger heat-affected zones on the material compared to that of fiber laser cutting.
Waterjet Cutting vs Fiber Laser Cutting
Waterjet cutting offers more material compatibility. It can easily cut materials such as plastic and glass. Due to its cold-cutting process, it also has no heat-affected cutting areas. However, fiber laser cutting beats it in precision, quality, and speed of cutting. It enables a higher throughput of parts compared to waterjet cutting.
CO2 Cutting vs Fiber Laser Cutting
CO2-cutting machines are known to be cost-effective and efficient; however, they aren’t as fast as fiber laser cutters. CO2 is better at cutting thicker materials, but it is not as good at cutting reflective materials such as aluminium, copper, brass, or steel.
Laser Cutting FAQs
Why use a fiber laser cutter?
Fiber laser cutting machines are powerful and extremely precise; they can cut up to 5 times faster than a standard CO2 laser. They can also cut through reflective materials such as brass and copper without worrying whether the reflection will damage the machine.
How accurate is laser cutting?
Laser cutting is a precise machine cutting method; it is the easiest, fastest and most efficient way to cut any material. Laser cutting is controlled by computers which results in cuts with very low tolerances.
What is suitable to be laser cut?
Our laser cutter is versatile and can cut different types of metal, including Mild Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminium, Brass and Copper.
We can also cut a range of parts from tiny pieces measuring only a few centimetres right up to large pieces that have been made into large tanks and hoppers. We are also able to cut intricate patterns and details out.
Fiber Laser Cutting Capabilities
Our fiber laser cutter is highly versatile and can cut a wide range of materials and thicknesses.
Materials and Maximum Material Thickness:
- Stainless Steel – 25mm
- Aluminium -25mm
- Brass – 15mm
- Mild Steel – 25mm
- Copper – 12mm
Nominal Sheet Size:
- 3000 x 1500 mm
To see our full list of capabilities, visit our laser cutting page.
Working with D&M Design & Fabrication Ltd for your Fiber Laser Cutting Needs
D&M Design & Fabrication Ltd is located in the heart of North Yorkshire. For over ten years, we have provided high-quality manufacturing and fabrication services on a national scale.
We have amassed extensive experience producing various fabrication projects. We can laser cut multiple metals and thicknesses, fold all materials on our six-press brakes, fabricate components, powder coat parts as well as assemble and package parts.
At D&M, we utilise the latest technologies to ensure the best possible laser-cutting services for every customer. We have installed a state-of-the-art 10KW Bystronic Fiber Laser with full sheet handling automation. Our machine operators are trained to use our laser cutter with precision to ensure we provide the highest quality laser cut parts every time.
To find out how we can help your business with your upcoming project, call us on 01765 522 222 or email us at sales@dmdesignfabrication.co.uk.