How Accurate Is Laser Cutting?

Are you interested in an industrial cutting service? You might have heard of laser cutting and want to know more about the process and laser cutting accuracy. In this blog, we’ll cover exactly how accurate laser cutting is and the advantages compared to other cutting methods. 

We’ll also explain how our custom laser cutting service at Salamander Fabrication’ can give you the highest quality finish at a brilliant price.

Interested in another service? Get in touch at 01484 843599 to find out what else we offer.

How Accurate Is a Laser Cutter?

A laser cutter is by far the most accurate cutting method out of the various methods available. Laser cutters are also deemed the fastest and most efficient way to cut materials across a range of industries.

Laser cutting accuracy can vary, allowing high-precision cuts in ranges between ±0.05 and ±0.2 mm. The ability to produce such accurate results across various measurements makes the laser cutter an ideal choice when creating indicated designs.

The variable range of a laser cutter also means it can maintain accuracy across a range of materials including textiles, wood, metals and some plastics.

How Can You Maintain Laser Cutting Accuracy?

Whilst laser cutters are extremely accurate on their own, there are some measures you can take to ensure your machine continues to have high levels of accuracy. 

Cleaning 

Make sure that your machine is regularly cleaned. Wipe away any dust or debris from the laser bed and ensure the ventilation system is clean to ensure any smoke is correctly filtered when the laser is in use. Laser cutting is a primary process used in sheet metal fabrication so it’s important to check for any small shards of metal debris that could cause damage to the machine and operators.

Calibration 

Inspect the alignment of the laser beam regularly. Misalignment of poor calibration can affect the accuracy of cutting and lead to the beam being off-centre. 

Update Software 

The latest firmware and software updates should always be installed to ensure the machine operates at full capacity. Calibrate the machine every few weeks using the provided software to ensure everything is working properly. 

Environment Control

The temperature of your workspace should remain stable and at a workable temperature. Fluctuations from temperatures that are too warm or too cold can affect the machinery within the laser cutter and cause performance issues.

Make sure that your working environment is also well-ventilated and free from excess dust as this can settle on various surfaces. 

Professional Servicing 

Just as you would with any other machinery, annual check-ups and professional servicing are required to ensure your laser cutter is operating correctly. You can also utilise the expertise of professionals to train staff on laser cutting and how to correctly use this machine to keep it well maintained and avoid misuse. 

Which Type of Laser Cutting is Most Accurate?

There are four main types of laser cutters. Each type of laser cutter has a different function and is used on different materials. 

When it comes to laser cutting accuracy, fibre lasers are deemed the most precise and versatile. Fibre lasers generate a powerful beam that allows them to cut through a wide range of materials including metals, wood, glass and more. 

Not only do fibre lasers offer more accuracy but they offer faster cutting times, less material wastage and a smoother finish. 

At Salamander Fabrication, we utilise fibre lasers to ensure the most efficient and accurate cutting.

How Does Laser Cutting Accuracy Compare to Other Cutting Methods?

Laser cutting is a great all-around accurate process, but how does it compare to other cutting methods?

Waterjet Cutting

A waterjet cutter uses pressurised water to cut through materials. The water can also be mixed with minerals known as abrasive grains to produce an even more powerful cut that can easily get through even thick metals. 

A waterjet is great for metal but this machine is slower than machines like a laser cutter and has a lower laser cutting accuracy when making more intricate cuts or cutting smaller sections of material.

A waterjet is also more expensive to run than a laser cutter.

Plasma Cutting

Plasma cutting is a form of cutting used predominantly on metals. It involves gases that conduct electricity passing through a torch to cut through metals. Plasma cutters are commonly used in the transport sector in auto repair shops.

Similar to a waterjet, this method of cutting is great for thick metal but the process is not as versatile as laser cutting as it can only be used on metal.

A plasma cutter is less accurate, more expensive to run and uses a lot more energy than a laser cutter. 

Flame Cutting

Flaming cutting is the process of cutting through materials using oxygen that reacts with heat from a flame. The chemical reaction allows the metal placed below to be pierced and cut through.

Although this process doesn’t involve electricity and saves on energy costs, it is far less accurate and slower than laser cutting. The process can also only cut a limited number of metals like steel.

It’s clear that no matter the benefits other cutting methods offer, laser cutting accuracy is superior and cannot be beaten by any other cutting method. 

What Can Impact the Accuracy of a Laser Cutter?

Whilst laser cutters are generally deemed the most accurate type of cutter, there are some factors that can influence the accuracy of your laser cutter.

Machine Quality

As with any product, quality usually equates to the price you pay. If you buy a cheaper machine your laser is likely to be less accurate and of lower quality. Industrial-level laser cutters are known to be expensive, and a high-quality machine will give you the best level of accuracy. 

Type of Laser

The most accurate type of laser is a fibre laser cutter. If you choose CO2, crystal or diode lasers they may possess other benefits but at the cost of being slightly less accurate. 

Laser Speed

If you want to increase the speed of production, you can increase the speed of the cutting process. The faster the cutting speed, however the less accurate the cut is expected to be. You therefore need to find a balance between speed and accuracy.

Choose Salamander Fabrications for Accurate Results.

If you want the highest quality products with fast turnaround, choose Salamander as your laser cutting service. We utilise the highest quality fibre bystronic lasers to produce the smoothest cuts that require no extra finishing.

When you work with us, our experts will be able to help your projects come to life with services from CAD to welding. If you want to get started with metal sheet fabrication, get in touch with our team of experts today.