As highlighted in The Fabricator’s article, “How One Fabricator Obtains the Perfect Edge on a Laser Cut,” achieving precise, flawless edges in laser cutting requires a combination of advanced technology, meticulous material selection, and collaboration with industry partners. Cupples’ J&J Co., a Jackson, Tenn.-based precision fabrication shop, has perfected this process using a 30-kW fiber laser, delivering parts ready for robotic welding without the need for deburring or leveling.
Start With the Right Material:
For high-powered fiber laser cutting, material quality is critical. The team at Cupples’ J&J prefers harder materials like A572 Grade 50 or higher, which cut more smoothly than A36. High-carbon A36 can cause hard, burned dross, making edge cleanup challenging. By working closely with material suppliers, the company ensures consistent chemical composition and low carbon content (0.19% or less) for optimal cutting performance.
Importance of Material Consistency and Surface Flatness:
The chemical consistency of materials—including yield and tensile strength—is vital for smooth, precise cuts. Uneven surfaces or inconsistent material composition can result in jagged edges and suboptimal results. Cupples’ J&J utilizes stretcher-leveled steel plates, which are stress-balanced and perfectly flat. This ensures a consistent standoff between the laser nozzle and the material surface, reducing the need for post-process leveling and preventing cutting head crashes.
Collaborative Innovation:
The company’s success also stems from close collaboration with laser machine manufacturers, assist gas vendors, and material suppliers. This teamwork has enabled the shop to optimize its processes and achieve precision edges with minimal taper, less than 0.005 inches.
Click here to learn more about Architectural & Industrial Metal Finishing Company’s laser cutting expertise.
Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of thefabricator.com.
