It seems like only yesterday that laser cutting was a futuristic technology, but it has steadily become a practical option for custom cutting for sheet metal and an excellent alternative to standard machining methodology. This process is the cleanest, most precise that it is possible to use.
To understand a bit more about the numerous advantages of Laser Cutting UK a better understanding of the process must first be established. Through the use of software as a guide, a high powered laser can cut through almost any material. This is usually used for industrial manufacturing purposes, but some small workshops now use for several obvious reasons. As it is cut material then burns, vaporizes, melts, or is blown away by powerful air jets, leaving an edge with a high quality surface finish. In this process, lasers can be used to cut flat sheet metal and structural and piping materials. Lasers do not get dull or chipped in the process. Therefore not only is laser cutting more precise but also more reliable.
While lasers operate by heat, the actual heat zone is typically very small so there is less of a chance of warping. The laser output can be adjusted depending on the thickness of the material, further reducing the chance of heat damage occurring in the process. Some of the benefits of laser cutting over ordinary cutting methods include better workholding as the piece its self is cut much quicker by laser than by machine. There is also reduced contamination of work piece.
When you consider that cutting blades often become contaminated by the previous job this is a huge advantage. Ordinary metal cutting requires a high degree of cutting and grinding. The edge is often left unfinished and needs to be refinished to achieve piece uniformity. This is something that does not occur with laser cutting. By being entirely computer controlled the accuracy of the laser cutting process is outstanding.
When a piece has been cut, there is nothing more to be done except move on to the next piece. Therefore the method of laser cutting much more efficient than traditional cutting methods. While the prices of laser cutters have dropped significantly as the machines carve out a niche in the manufacturing industry, it would not be practical to buy one if just to use it a few times each year. Many specialist Laser Cutting UK shops exist for no other reason but to custom cut materials for manufacturers. There can be many benefits to this as well.
Without the need to train workers for a machine that is seldom used or having to “brush up” before every single job, the quality stays high with these workshops. They also have a reputation for being efficient and customer friendly. With this in mind, outsourcing a job that can be completed faster and more accurately to a smaller laser shop might be the way of the future over on site shops which are not necessarily cost-effective or easy to maintain.
Laser cutting is in many ways still in its infancy. Improved machines and practices are coming to light but the fundamental process remains the same and the clear benefits of laser cutting will always be present.