Advantages and disadvantages of sheet metal laser cutting technology

July 12, 2024

In today's manufacturing industry, sheet metal laser cutting technology has attracted much attention due to its unique performance and benefits. The following is a detailed analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of sheet metal laser cutting:

Advantages of Sheet Metal Laser Cutting

High Precision Cutting: Laser cutting melts and evaporates materials with a high degree of precision, far exceeding many traditional cutting methods. For example, the tolerance of laser cutting machines can be as low as 0.003 mm, compared to the tolerance level of some die-cutting tools, which is about 1 to 3 mm.

High Material Utilization: Laser cutting produces almost no waste, maximizing the use of metal sheets and improving sheet utilization. This allows manufacturers to purchase exactly what they need without worrying about the waste of additional materials.

Strong Versatility: The laser cutting machine is suitable not only for simple and complex cutting operations but also for marking, drilling, and engraving, greatly enhancing the equipment's versatility. This flexibility means that manufacturers do not need to change tools frequently during different manufacturing processes.

Low Energy Consumption: Compared with other cutting machinery, laser cutting equipment can effectively reduce energy consumption. While laser cutters may use up to 10 kW of energy, many other cutting procedures can require up to five times as much.

Reduced Material Damage: Laser cutting creates a very small heat-affected zone (HAZ), greatly reducing the risk of warping, deforming, or damaging parts due to heat.

Disadvantages of Sheet Metal Laser Cutting

Need for Professional Operators: To ensure the machine operates well and manufacturing efficiency is maintained, laser cutting machines usually require professional and technically skilled personnel. These professionals can quickly identify and address issues that may affect process or equipment integrity.

Metal Thickness Limitations: Although laser cutting is suitable for processing a wide range of materials, other cutting techniques may be needed when working with thicker metals, such as aluminum plates over 15 mm or steel plates over 6 mm.

Harmful Gas Emissions: Laser cutting of molten volatile materials, especially plastics, can release a large number of harmful substances.Therefore, it must be conducted in a well-ventilated or safe environment.

In summary, sheet metal laser cutting technology has significant advantages, including high accuracy, high material utilization, versatility, low energy consumption, and reduced material damage.However, it also faces some challenges, such as the need for professional operators, metal thickness limitations, harmful gas emission issues, and high initial investment costs. CTT has effectively overcome these challenges through its professional technology and services, providing high-quality laser cutting solutions for various industries.

Author:

Ms. CTT TECHNOLOGY (UK) LIMITED

E-mail:

haiqi.liang@chuntian-ctt.com

Phone/WhatsApp:

8613318966480