Laser and water jet cutting are two of the fastest and most accurate ways of computer numerical controlled (CNC) cutting in the sheet metal fabrication industry. Both these cutting tools offer precision and flexibility, minimize waste and so are easily programmable with CAD/CAM or nesting software.
Both laser and water jet cutters have distinct advantages over a few of the more traditional cutting methods. They might be used with many different materials besides sheet metal, such as marble, glass, plastics and acrylic. Also, they are a lot more efficient than traditional machine tool cutting in terms of smaller orders that might be more specialized or require more detail.
Laser Cutting
Fabrication software allows a programmer to input information which will direct a cutting tool to move along a design path with the goal of cutting out a bit or part just as it was used. There is Click here for executing the complete cutting of a programmed pattern when compared to a laser cutting machine. When coupled with quality CNC laser software, lasers can perform very detailed cutting functions that include holes, slots and complex design patterns.
However, laser machines do have their limitations. When using a laser cutter, the more wattage the deeper the cutting ability. Lasers are extremely quick and accurate when used to cut thinner metals. However when thicker metal is used, "heat zones" can form which will sometimes melt more sensitive metals or cause unevenness or rough spots in the material.
Therefore, laser cutting thicker metals is impractical not only because of possible damage to the material, but because it is more costly. If heat zones or hot spots occur from overexposing the metal to the laser, extra work such as for example grinding the part may become necessary. This can increase labor and material expenses, in addition to the higher costs connected with more energy usage.
Water Jet Cutting
But not as precise as laser cutting, water jet cutting has the capacity to cut thicker material without causing damage. Considered an "abrasive" process, water jet cutting uses an abrasive material coupled with water in an extremely concentrated stream to "erode" or break down the material being cut.
Though there may be some sanding or finishing involved after processing a bit, water jetting tools are much more acceptable to be used with thicker materials and also the ones that are sensitive and susceptible to damage under extreme heat.
However, precautions must also be taken when cutting metal with a water jet tool. The material should be dried immediately after cutting in order to avoid rusting. Also, since a cut from a water jet machine isn't as even or clean as when working with a laser, the edges of the cut usually need to be sanded or grinded. The piece should be "finished" so that you can smooth it out and ensure it is ready for possible welding.
Overall, both water jet cutting and laser cutting have their advantages. Water jet cutting is often more cost effective, but that can also depend on the size of the work and the thickness of the material being used. When used on thinner, more detailed parts from sheet metal, a variety of top-line fabrication software and a good laser cutting machine may be the optimal scenario for producing quality parts at a fast rate.