Today, laser cutters are the most preferred tools when it comes to metal sheet cutting. Whether it's the automotive sector, the construction industry, or small metal fabrication shops, these machines have become popular choice.
This article discusses the advantages of laser cutting metal sheets over conventional cutting methods. Before that, let us learn what a laser cutter is.
A laser cutting machine is state-of-the-art equipment helping operators cut a wide range of materials. It releases a concentrated laser beam on the target and makes a clean cut.
The laser source is the primary part of the machine that produces the laser beam. The beam delivery point features mirrors and lenses to focus on a specific target.
Another main area of the machine is its cutting bed. It is a flat surface area where an operator keeps the metal sheet for cutting.
Laser cutting machines come with a CNC controller and CAD software. The CNC system interprets the instruction of CAD software and gives directions to the laser source.
Modern laser cutters come with a comprehensive control system. It allows users to make various settings in cutting speed and laser power.
There are several traditional methods to cut sheet metal. However, a few popular ones include:
Shearing is a primary sheet metal cutting process. A pair of sharp blades cut the sheet metal with the help of shearing force. While the shearing machine can cut metal sheets with different thickness levels, it does not make curved cuts.
Flame cutting, also known as thermal or gas cutting, is another conventional metal sheet cutting method. This cutting procedure uses a torch that releases the flame on a metal sheet.
When the metal reaches the set temperature, a high-pressure oxygen jet is released through the torch nozzle. It oxidizes the metal and creates a fine cut.
Plasma cutting is comparatively the latest technique compared to the above methods. It uses a plasma torch to produce an electric arc.
This arc melts and evaporates the sheet metal part. Though this cutting method is fast, it has several disadvantages. For example, it produces a lot of metal dust and glare. Moreover, it does not give a smooth cutting surface.
Oxy-fuel cutting method utilizes oxygen and fuel gas to cut sheet metal. First, the sheet is preheated with a flame. Thereafter, the jet of oxygen is released.
The process oxidizes the metal at the cutting point.
This reaction between oxygen and metal creates a clean cut. Generally, individuals use this method to cut thick metal sheets.
It is another popular traditional metal sheeting cutting method. A high-pressure water stream cuts the metal sheet. The force of the water can be as high as 55 0000 psi (pound per square).
These are some traditional methods that have to cut a sheet.
Let us learn how laser cutting is a better option than them.
Precision is crucial in metal sheet cutting. In every industry, a slight misalignment can ruin the product.
Unlike old cutting methods, laser-cutting metal sheets get accurate and aesthetic cuts.
Modern laser cutters offer matchless precision and accuracy. Since a concentrated laser beam cuts the sheet, there is no chance of inaccuracy.
With traditional cutting methods, such as water jet cutting, a high level of accuracy is not possible. Operators may have to compromise on accuracy. These techniques make wider and not well-defined widths in comparison to laser cutting.
Laser cutters are known to provide efficiency with speed. There is limited human intervention involved. An operator does not need to change any tool between the processes.
Once you have made the necessary settings, the cutter works automatically. As a result, it minimizes the overall production time.
It is true that the initial investment in a laser cutter is high. However, the technology is several times more economical in terms of labor costs.
The process involved no manual adjustment or tool changing. It automatically reduces the labor cost and set-up time.
Besides, laser-cutting metal sheets have low material waste, thanks to their precise cutting. Remember, the less the material waste is, the more productivity you get.
What makes laser cutters more advanced than their counterparts are automation and integration. It is easy to integrate this machine into an automated system.
As it adopts a computer-controlled system, it ensures seamless workflow. It is missing in traditional cutting methods.
This factor alone defines why laser cutters are quickly replacing conventional cutting methods.
Laser cutters pose the least risk to operators. Most laser-cutting machines come with automatic shutdown features.
Additionally, laser cutting is a non-contact method. It naturally minimizes the risk of injuries.
However, like with every cutting method, you must use protective eyewear. Only a certified laser operator operates this machine.
Adaptability is another feature that gives laser-cutting metal sheets the upper hand over traditional methods.
A laser cutting machine can cut metal sheets made of copper, brass, stainless steel, etc.
These cutters allow you to adjust cutting settings as per the density of the sheet. As a result, a laser cutting machine is suitable for a wide range of applications in different industries.
Laser-cutting metal sheets do not produce high heat like flame cutting. Sometimes, conventional cutting methods generate so much heat that the metal properties get altered.
This is not the case with laser cutting. Also, laser cutters make narrow cuts. Consequently, these machines don't make changes to the structural integrity.
Laser cutters are relatively environmentally friendly. This cutting method produces negligible waste because of its high precision.
Apart from this, laser cutting machines consume less energy compared to most traditional cutting methods.
Laser cutting is a clean procedure. You will not see smoke or fumes during the metal sheet cutting.
Moreover, the process doesn’t cause harmful emissions into the environment.
Considering everything, we can say that laser cutting metal sheets have several benefits over traditional cutting methods. It has been used in various industries due to its high precision and accuracy. Moreover, its versatility makes it a perfect fit for small, medium, and large-sized businesses. Laser cutters are also cost-efficient in the long run.
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