Laser cutting uses advanced laser optics and computer numerical control to fabricate parts for complex industrial machinery and other applications. The laser is directed via a computerized motion control system to precisely replicate the computer design onto the material, which is then either melted, burned, or vaporized away. The most common application for Laser Cutting Seattle WA metal fabricators encounter is industrial manufacturing, but it has proven useful in a variety of other diverse fields as well.
The primary advantage of using laser technology is that it reduces contamination and produces a more precise cut. Unlike the machines used for mechanical cutting, lasers do not wear down over time. This ensures consistency. The heat affected zone for laser cutting is also much smaller than that of its more traditional counterparts, and constantly improving technology is allowing for thicker materials to be manipulated in this manner. A 5000 Watt laser is capable of cutting through steel up to an inch thick, stainless steel up to ¾ inch thick, and ½ inch thick aluminum.
This technique is most effective for cutting flat sheet metal, structural materials, and piping. Recently developed laser cutters can be positioned accurately to within 10 micrometers, allowing for adherence to smaller or more intricate cuts than machine or plasma cutting. Cuts are made on a flat axis by either changing the trajectory of the laser beam itself or moving the material underneath it, or both. For materials that cannot withstand the heat of continuous wave Laser Cutting Seattle WA fabricators can utilize a pulsed laser. This process is slower, but accumulates less heat, allowing very small holes to be pierced in metal and in some cases preventing the heat damage that would otherwise make the use of this technology impractical.
Materials that cannot be manipulated using laser cutting include combustible materials and those that would be damaged by extreme heat. Typically fabrication shops capable of providing laser cutting also have access to other equipment that can better handle less hardy materials.
Need parts fabricated for industrial machines or other applications requiring extreme precision? Specialty Metals has all of the experience and equipment needed to handle any job. Visit the website for more information.
