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Laser cutting is one of Xometry's sheet metal profiling processes that directs a high-power laser through optics to cut materials for industrial applications. Laser cutting is both more precise and less energy-consuming than plasma cutting, but has an upper threshold on the thickness of the material being cut. Xometry's Manufacturing Partner Network offers both fiber and CO2 lasers that can cut many materials including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and exotic alloys. CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser excels at cutting, engraving, and boring metals, while fiber laser is a good option for thicker materials. For sheet and plate metal thicker than 4 inches, see our waterjet cutting services.
Our custom laser cutting service offers a cost-effective and on-demand solution for your manufacturing needs. Sheet metal fabrication services range from low-volume prototype to high-volume production runs.
You can get an instant quote from a 3D CAD file or DXF through our Instant Quoting Engine.
The most common laser types because of their relatively high energy efficiency and high power output ratio. Best suited for cutting, boring, and engraving.
Have a high energy, but low repetition efficiency.
Higher powered for cutting thicker materials but more expensive to operate.
Both Nd/Nd:Yag lasers are used for boring and welding. Nd:Yag lasers can also be used for engraving.
| Aluminum | Copper | Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum 5052 | Copper 101 | Stainless Steel 301 |
| Copper C110 | Stainless Steel 304 | |
| Copper 260 (Brass) | Stainless Steel 316/316L | |
| Steel, Low Carbon |
Additional materials are available upon request! Review more information about our materials here.
Minimal post-processing or treatment on parts is done.
The part surface is left with a smooth, matte appearance.
Type II creates a corrosion-resistant finish. Parts can be anodized in different colors—clear, black, red, and gold are most common—and is usually associated with aluminum. Type III is thicker and creates a wear-resistant layer in addition to the corrosion resistance seen with Type II.
This is a process where powdered paint is sprayed onto a part which is then baked in an oven. This creates a strong, wear- and corrosion-resistant layer that is more durable than standard painting methods. A wide variety of colors are available to create the desired aesthetic.
Provides corrosion resistance and good conductivity properties. Can be used as a base for paint. Can leave surface yellow/gold.
Don’t see the finish you need? Submit an RFQ and we’ll look into a finishing process for you.
Lasers can cut many materials with high precision, making it perfect for preparing flat patterns or material blanks.
The range of materials available, low cost per unit, and speed of production makes laser cutting a great option for prototyping.
Large format cutting, vast material options, and high throughput have made laser cutting a favorable technology for end-use parts.
Similar to CNC machining, sheet metal processes produce highly durable parts well-suited for both functional prototypes and end-use production.
All sheet metal parts are built on-demand and with lower setup costs compared to CNC Machining. Depending on your needs, order as little as a single prototype up to 10,000 production parts.
Choose from a variety of sheet metals across a wide range of strength, conductivity, weight, and corrosion resistance.
Combining the latest cutting, bending, and punching with automated technologies, Xometry provides instant sheet quotes that can often ship the same week.
| Description | General Tolerance |
|---|---|
| Distance Dimensions | For features of size (Length, width, diameter) and location (position, concentricity, symmetry) +/- 0.010” is typical. Material length and thickness may affect tolerances. |
| Thickness Dimension | Thickness tolerances are determined by the material blank. |
| Minimum Recommend Part Size | 1.000" |
| Minimum Feature Size | 2X material thickness with a minimum of 0.062" |
| Kerf (slit size) | Approximately 0.020" |
| Edge Condition | Laser cut parts will have a matte, vertical striation on the edges. |
Please check out Xometry's Manufacturing Standards for more information on tolerances per process. Unless we have agreed to other tolerances in your Quote, we will work to achieve and hold the tolerances noted.
The Basics Of Laser Cutters
Laser cutters are CNC machines that use a thin, high-powered laser beam to cut materials. The process is most often used in industrial manufacturing. Laser cutters are commonly used for quality welding and to cut industrial sheet metal, but laser cutters can also be used for other materials from composites to rubber, glass, wood, and aluminum.
How Laser Cutters Work
Laser focusing optics are used to direct electrical energy into a high-density light beam, and CNC is used to manage either the workpiece or the laser beam. The material processed by the laser cutter is then melted, burned, vaporized, or blown away by a jet of oxygen or nitrogen.
Laser cutting offers several advantages over traditional mechanical cutting or CNC machining processes, including quicker production, decreased contamination of the workpiece, and reduced chance of warping. Laser cutting produces clean cuts and has a small chance of operator error making them great for fast prototyping.
Xometry's custom laser cutting services offer a cost-effective on-demand solution for your sheet metal fabrication needs, including the material, details, and size of the project. From fast, low-volume prototypes to high-quality, high-volume production runs, Xometry’s massive partner network has the ideal shop and the ideal machines for the job.
Choose from millions of possible combinations of materials, finishes, tolerances, markings, and certifications for your order.
Get your parts delivered right to your door without the hassle of sourcing, project management, logistics, or shipping.
Only the top 6% of shops that apply to become Partners make it through our multi-tiered qualification process, so you can be confident your part will be made right.
