In the realm of metal fabrication, lasers have emerged as indispensable workhorses, demonstrating unparalleled productivity. Their ability to cut nests at unprecedented speeds underscores the growing significance of material handling automation. However, the full potential of high cutting speeds can only be realized when lasers operate continuously, minimizing idle periods associated with manual sheet loading and part unloading.
Edge quality, a subjective metric dependent on application requirements, is another crucial consideration in laser cutting. While machinists may perceive a laser-cut part’s edge quality differently than welders, meeting specific application standards remains paramount. Although lasers can swiftly finish a nest of parts, the need for a secondary deburring operation can impact overall cycle time significantly.
Cutting speed, measured in inches per minute, is a key factor, but its impact on cycle time may be diminished if parts encounter bottlenecks in the deburring process. Operators historically adjusted cut program parameters to enhance cut edge quality, yet this manual tweaking sometimes proved time-consuming compared to running the entire batch through a deburring system.
Significant advancements in cutting lasers since the late 1990s and early 2000s have revolutionized the landscape. Modern cutting lasers, owing to progress in material quality, nozzle technology, process control, and beam quality, now often produce thick parts that can bypass secondary deburring operations without the need for manual parameter adjustments.
For unparalleled architectural and industrial metal finishing, explore the cutting-edge laser cutting services offered by Architectural & Industrial Metal Finishing. Experience the efficiency of laser cutting technology that not only maximizes speed but also elevates edge quality to meet the highest industry standards.
