Electing for custom laser cutting services on sheet metal fabrication projects means there’s an expectation for supreme quality, consistency, and precision.
Learn how accuracy is improved in sheet metal fabrication projects with S&R Sheet Metal.
How Accuracy is Achieved in Custom Laser Cutting
- Lasers have small spot sizes and a narrow kerf — on average around 0.1mm — that cover small surfaces, ensuring an accurate cut.
- Automation also drives accuracy in laser cutting services. CNC-controlled axes, modern servo systems, and real-time, in-time process monitoring maintain speed, power, and main position consistently across the entire material.
Accuracy Advantages Achieved in Custom Laser Cutting
Accuracy itself is an advantage, but the benefits of accuracy must be highlighted to truly understand the capabilities of laser cutting as a whole.
One of the first points here is the tight tolerance threshold. Most lasers, whether they are modern fiber or CO2, routinely hold a plus or minus 0.1mm tolerance in typical sheet metal gauges. With this level of control, laser cutting offers significant advantages for precision assemblies, tab-and-slot joints, and press-fit features.
Key Advantages
Along with accuracy, custom laser cutting services provide more critical benefits for sheet metal projects.
Part integrity is achieved with custom laser cutting, largely due to the laser’s extreme accuracy. Because the beam is so tightly focused on its targeted path, minimal damage is done to the sheet metal part as a whole, and cuts are extremely clean.
Flexibility is another major benefit of laser cutting services. This relates both to design and actual application. With its CO2 or fiber capabilities, laser cutting can achieve even the most intricate sheet metal designs and complex geometries.
Laser cutting services have a high repeatability level. These services are largely automated, and as long as systems are running correctly, projects can be run time and time again.
The time it takes for a custom laser cutting job to be performed can vary depending on a few factors, such as the size of the project, the geometries, and the sheet metal itself. But, these services are generally performed quickly thanks to the elevated cutting accuracy and automation.
The Impact of Custom Laser Cutting on the Product
When performed properly, laser cutting’s impact on the product itself is minimal. Because of how small the laser’s beam is, deformations and waste are reduced.
Customization Allows for Challenging Designs
While accuracy is arguably the most important aspect of any laser cutting service, for customers, it’s important to note further advantages of a custom project. Tight geometries, nesting, and cutting are all possible without the risk of losing edge-to-edge tolerances.
Custom often means design freedom without additional tooling, dedicated punches, or dies.
Partner with S&R for Custom Laser Cutting on Your Sheet Metal Fabrication Projects
S&R Sheet Metal provides full-service sheet metal fabrication services to numerous industries. We proudly provide custom laser cutting services, with design and engineering that meet your specifications.
Backed by two different types of laser cutting capabilities, a skilled and experienced team, and years of experience, S&R Sheet Metal has the means to get the job done.
Contact us today for expert services and a relationship you can trust.