How Much Does Laser Cutting Cost?

You’ve probably heard a lot about the benefits of laser cutting, but have you wondered how much it costs? Here are a few factors that you should consider. First, the working area of a laser cutter must be large enough to handle the size of the sheet material you need to cut out the part from. Many materials have standard sheet sizes, so it may be necessary to purchase a larger bed than you originally planned to accommodate future part needs.

If you need to cut thicker material, then you’ll need to upgrade your laser power. Higher power allows you to work with more material faster. In general, a 25-watt laser source is enough for paper and cardboard. If you need to cut thicker materials, such as MDF or acrylic, you may need to invest in a 40- or 60-watt source. If you’re considering upgrading your laser, it is important to know that a new power supply is required. If you’re using an old laser, you’ll need to modify the cabinet or tube in order to accommodate the increased power.

The cost of a metal laser cutter is very expensive.  It’s possible to save money up front by purchasing a used cutter but in the long run it may not be worth it.   A used machined can be tempting to buy but the cost of setup and maintenance can quickly add up. If your customers are expecting a precision product, a used machine may not meet your customers’ requirements.  A brand new laser cutter will make your job more efficient, give you more profits, and require minimal maintenance.  However, a new machine demands a much larger investment.

Laser Cutting Services for Custom Parts and Short Run Fabrication

If you need to laser cut parts and are not able to invest in the machinery, you can outsource the task to a laser cutting service. Such companies specialize in custom metal fabrication, and their skilled staff can perform high-quality and reliable laser cutting for your projects. These professionals can produce precision cut components with repeatable quality and reliability. These companies also offer fast turnaround on a variety of in-stock materials and short run productions.

Laser cutting services can provide precision results. When provided with the appropriate settings, these machines can cut through any material. Normally, laser cutting is used for part outline, holes, and other features. However, if you need a part with many intricate details, you should consider vector cutting. This technique can also be used for small features, such as holes. It is important to check the capabilities and service offered when requesting a job with a laser cutting company.

A laser cutting service can handle materials up to 12 inches thick. Its high-precision, accuracy, and flexibility make it ideal for a wide variety of applications. Whether you need a precision part made from aluminum or steel, laser-cutting can provide you with the result you need in a short period of time. As a result, the technology has become popular in various industries including aerospace, electronics, and general manufacturing.

Fox Valley Stamping’s experienced CNC laser operators produce quality parts efficiently and accurately.  Their specialists leverage the newest software and technology to convert your unique CAD designs into custom cut parts.  Fox Valley Stampings CNC laser cutting services are a cost-effective method for small and medium part orders.  Contact us today for your laser cutting needs.