Manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to make their processes more efficient and accurate. Laser cutting has emerged as a solution to many of the challenges of creating specialized metal parts. This article will explore the benefits of modern laser cutting and how it can help manufacturers achieve higher precision and speed.
How Is Laser Cutting Used?
Modern laser cutting delivers superior precision and can create more complex parts than traditional cutting processes. These advanced technologies enable fabricators to produce high-quality parts quicker and more cost-effective. Operators can cut intricate designs, and in the closely regulated metal manufacturing industry, most high-quality laser cutting is completed by ISO-compliant metal fabricators.
Manufacturers use laser cutting to comply with regulatory standards, meet or exceed consumer expectations, and serve business partners. Here are some of the most common applications:
- Art
- Automotive components
- Aerospace parts
- Lighting
- Furniture
- Agricultural equipment
- Jewelry
- Interior décor
- Medical utensils
- Tools
- Patterns and templates
- Food products
Advancements in Laser Cutting Technologies
Modern laser cutters use innovative light sources, offer more robust power, and can handle more dimensions than those in the past. Some manufacturers can also utilize laser cutting variants such as fusion, controlled fracture cutting, and vaporization to achieve complex geometries. Five-axis laser cutting is another emerging technology in metal fabrication and innovative product development. The increased speed and precision help teams create standard and non-standard metal parts without sacrificing quality, cost effectiveness, or compliance with environmental regulations.
Benefits of Laser Cutting Over Traditional Methods
Manufacturers prefer laser cutting to traditional metal cutting processes because it supports faster turnaround and better results. Laser cutting is more flexible than metal spinning, metal turning, and other traditional machining processes. New advancements in laser cutting technology are furthering those benefits with automation to reduce human error and increase profitability. Most lasers are hooked up to sophisticated software, allowing teams to repeat operations and iterate with precision. This cost-effective approach also lets you cut non-ferrous materials, enjoy rapid turnarounds, and use less energy.
How Manufacturers Are Improving Operations with Laser Cutting
Many manufacturers have reported operational improvements after integrating advanced laser cutting technologies. The high-profile metal fabricators at NASA, for example, use laser cutters to ensure precise beam positioning in crucial electronics. Other manufacturers use the technology to create innovative and sustainable packaging. Laser cutting technologies help optimize critical processes, enhance existing manufacturing applications, and streamline production. Watch the aerospace, automotive, and agricultural industries for real-time proof, and check out other case studies to see more innovative ways business leaders are employing high-tech laser cutting.
How to Adopt Laser Cutting Technology
Competitive manufacturers understand the importance of adopting and integrating advanced metal fabrication technologies. Those who remain too loyal to traditional processes could soon become obsolete. Meanwhile, laser cutting applications continually broaden to encompass intricate designs and ISO-compliant innovations.
Here are seven tips for joining the laser cutting revolution:
- Determine your preferred materials. Laser cutting technologies have come a long way and continue to develop, but manufacturers can’t yet use it to fabricate ferrous metals.
- Develop a practical timeline. Laser cutting helps manufacturers satisfy short lead times, but teams need structured plans to ensure accuracy and accountability.
- Create a flexible budget. Be prepared for unexpected issues and design alterations.
- Watch the supply chain. Keep an eye on international trade relations and choose US-made metal to minimize costs.
- Work with an ISO-certified metal fabricator. Develop and manufacture products that are compliant with variable and custom criteria, enabling you to sell overseas without liabilities.
- Adopt laser cutting as soon as possible. Doing so will help you remain relevant in your industry by integrating heightened standards, driving innovation, and boosting profitability.
Laser cutting can improve operations and help teams stay ahead in the competitive manufacturing landscape. To learn more, subscribe to the KRYTON Metals blog.
