But which of these methods offers the most advantages for industrial workplaces? Explore the benefits of laser cutting over these other methods in our explainer.
Quick and Clean Cutting
Lasers cut quickly and decisively, which is ideal for industrial cutting applications. Laser cutting can cut through non-ferrous materials and the thickest metals without slowing the cutting process or compromising its clean cutting abilities.
Because laser cutting is a quick process, the final cut is much cleaner than other methods, which means there’s less heat distortion and less post-treatment of the cut is needed. Other methods, like sawing, can leave distortions on the material, as the jagged teeth push and cut through the grain of the metal or other material. Fast cutting also means a faster overall process, more efficient turnarounds, and higher volume of cutting performed each day—a win-win of efficiency and output.
Versatility in Applications
Another benefit of laser cutting over other methods is its application, material, and cutting method versatility. Laser cutting can be used for practically any material and work precisely and effectively. Some of the most common materials used in laser cutting applications include:
- Polymers
- Stainless steel
- Mild steel
- Titanium
- Tungsten
For industrial workplaces that have to cut and shape various materials, laser cutting offers a significant advantage over methods that are only useful for specific materials. Not only can lasers cut all these materials, but they can do so in a precise manner, carving complex shapes with great detail. Within the realm of laser cutting are more specific options, such as fiber and MOPA laser cutting, meaning operators can choose the ideal tools to get the exact cuts they need for their applications.
Precision
Precision is always a priority when cutting any kind of material, and no method can outdo laser cutting in this regard. With proper setup, maintenance, and operation, laser cutting can be precise within 25 microns, or about one-quarter of the width of a strand of human hair.
Waterjet cutting, for comparison, is precise up to roughly 50 microns under ideal conditions, which is still precise but more than double the tolerance of laser cutting. For the highest-quality precision, it’s clear that laser cutting is the way to go.
Automation
Another reason laser cutting is preferred in so many applications and industrial workplaces is that it requires minimal human input or intervention. Modern laser cutting machines are highly automated, especially regarding cutting speed, so workplaces can save hours of labor and focus their resources on other tasks.
Operators are only responsible for setup, post-cutting treatment, and the occasional maintenance of the machine—the automated laser-cutting machine takes care of the rest. Less human intervention also means fewer chances of harm to workers, which translates to a safer workplace overall.
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