Only a few metal cutting processes can match the precision and accuracy of laser cutting. Laser cutting allows you to manufacture parts faster. And it reduces scrap, decreases tooling requirements, and produces a higher quality product. So, how much does the laser cutting process cost?
The cost of the laser cutting process is determined by a variety of criteria. First and foremost is the type of laser used, the material, and the overall accuracy required. Next, we’ll delve into all of these considerations. Then, show you how to get the best price for your project.
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Key Factors Affecting the Cost of Laser Cutting Services
Laser cutting is undoubtedly more costly when compared to traditional cutting methods. However, if you consider the benefits of laser cutting and its cost-effectiveness. Then laser cutting is more cost-effective compared to water jet cutting.
In general, the cost of laser cutting depends on labor, overall time, and design complexity. However, this is a fairly broad perspective. Listed below are the most critical breakdown factors that affect the overall cost of laser cutting.
Laser Cutting Machine Cost
The price of a laser cutting machine is a major capital investment. It affects the overall viability and the price you have to pay. As a result, it is expensive to purchase the equipment needed to use a laser cutting machine. In addition, you have to bear the maintenance costs of the equipment.
This is why it is recommended that you opt for laser cutting services rather than investing in the installation of the equipment. By choosing the right laser cutting service, you can get the parts you need without spending more.
The type of laser is an important factor in determining the price of laser cutting equipment. The industry uses either carbon dioxide lasers or fibre lasers. Carbon dioxide lasers are slightly less expensive, but they have limited capabilities and are expensive to run. Fiber lasers, on the other hand, cut faster, produce better results, and are not as expensive to run. However, fibre laser cutters are much more expensive than other options.
Cost Per Minute of Use of Laser Cutting Machine
Total elapsed time and total rate per minute affect another major factor in the overall cost of the laser cutting process. The service you choose will charge a specific rate based on its complexity, the type of laser, and the labour required. Once the rate is determined, the service provider simply multiplies it by the entire duration to determine the final cost. You can get an idea of the cost of a particular item or component during the design phase of your project.
Cost of Laser Engraving
Depending on the project specifications, you may also need to add and engrave some surfaces. Engraving is a relatively simple procedure. This is because it simply cuts into the surface to create a permanent marking. In addition, the surface you have, the quality of the material, and various other factors will affect your total cost.
Material Costs
Of course, the material you choose will directly affect the total laser cutting cost of your project. The cost per inch of laser cutting varies by material. This is because each material will have a different cost depending on availability and a variety of other factors.
For example, even if all other criteria such as design and time required are the same. The cost of laser cutting steel will be lower than the cost of cutting premium aluminium. This is because premium aluminum is more expensive. As a result, the cost of your laser cutting service will also increase.
Material Wall Thickness
The thicker the material, the longer it takes for the laser to penetrate and cut. Therefore, the overall thickness of the material will affect the cost of your laser cutting services. The usual rule of thumb is that the longer the machine runs, the higher the cost.
In addition, thinner sheet metal parts can be processed at the same time. This means that you can stack parts on top of each other and cut them at the same time. This increases productivity while requiring very little additional work. This can effectively reduce costs.
However, care must be taken when determining the number of layers. Too thick will exceed the overall cutting capacity of the laser, potentially increasing costs.
Order Quantity
The time it takes for the laser to warm up is also a cost factor. This is where economies of scale come into play. For large orders, the laser does not need to be reset and can simply continue working. As a result, overall costs will be lower.
Transportation and Distribution
Finally, logistics is an important factor in determining the overall cost of laser cutting services. Transportation costs are determined by volume, total weight, supplier geographic location, and overall rules. All of these variables add up to increase your expenses.
Other Factors Affecting the Cost of Laser Cutting Services
The factors mentioned above will always have an impact on the cost of laser cutting. In addition, there are some additional influencing factors. They are usually unique to laser cutting services.
Design
Design can directly affect the total cost of laser cutting. Simply put, complex designs require slower processing speeds. This increases the overall machine processing time and cost.
In addition, very complex designs increase the overall risk of the project. It may be necessary to change the design after machining. This results in a higher price.
Rush Orders
As with other projects, the cost of a project can be affected by lead times. Urgent work requires additional resources due to increased demand. Of course, you do not want to compromise on quality. Therefore, the only option is to accept a higher price.
Material Strength
Material strength affects laser cutting time and delivery methods. Hard, strong metals or other materials may require longer laser processing times. However, they do not require special consideration for transportation.
On the other hand, fragile materials are a breeze for laser processing. However, you need to be extra careful during the entire transportation process. This is because fragile materials can break or become permanently deformed, resulting in a loss of time and resources.
Customization Requirements
Another major reason for the increased cost of laser cutting services is the need for customized parts. For example, extra engraving, sharp edges, unique corners, or anything else. These customization services may require additional machine time or labor costs. As a result, the cost of the entire project is affected.
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Cost Comparison Between Laser Cutting and Waterjet Cutting
Both laser cutting and water jet cutting are highly technical and precise processes. The basic principles of both cutting processes are the same. They use the same CNC instructions and process details. However, the two processes are fundamentally different.
The laser cutting process utilizes the thermal penetration of a high-energy laser to cut material. A waterjet cutter, on the other hand, achieves a similar effect through a high-speed stream of water. In terms of equipment cost, laser cutters are more expensive than waterjet cutters. However, the operating costs are the opposite. The maintenance and operating costs of a waterjet cutter are higher than those of a laser cutter.
Yonglihao Machinery’s Laser Cutting Services
Laser cutting is a highly technical process. It is known for its unparalleled precision and accuracy. The cutting process produces the fastest results with the least amount of scrap. This makes it ideal for a wide range of industry applications. However, it also comes with a major drawback. The cost of purchasing laser cutting equipment is very expensive.
Therefore, it is more cost-effective for most businesses to look for a laser cutting service provider. In addition, a professional laser-cutting provider can help you optimize your designs. And they can save costs without sacrificing quality.
Yonglihao Machinery is a reliable, convenient, experienced, and affordable laser cutting service company. We have a team of experienced professionals who understand the laser cutting process. In addition, we have a wide range of automated tools to make the process easier.
Why Use Laser Cutting to Manufacture Parts?
Laser cutting is one of the most modern processes. It delivers accurate, fast results and minimizes waste. Although the cost of laser cutting is quite high due to the factors mentioned above, it is a viable option. This is especially true in precision applications or where expensive materials are limited.
In such cases, using laser cutting to machine parts is a superior option. Here are a few reasons why you should choose laser cutting over other processes.
Accuracy and Precision
Laser cutting machines are virtually unmatched in terms of accuracy. CNC systems program the machine to cut intricate patterns. The laser then produces these patterns with unparalleled precision. In addition, the laser cutter produces neat edges and smooth surfaces.
This method produces virtually no scrap. In addition, this precision also produces quality parts. Since the laser cutting machine can provide such high precision. It is therefore suitable for aerospace parts and medical devices that require strict quality standards.
Reduced Lead Time
Laser cutting is known for its ability to cut metal accurately at high speeds. It can quickly cut metal up to 3/8 inch thick. When this limit is exceeded, the time required increases. But it is still a fast process.
The laser cutting process is suitable for both small and large production runs. It can greatly reduce processing time. Manufacturers can offer the fastest service when they choose the right type of laser cutter for the project.
More Consistent Ability to Handle Complex Jobs
Laser cutting can handle more complex and unique shapes. Since laser cutting is based on CNC technology. As a result, there are fewer constraints on design elements compared to other processes. In addition, when processing sheet metal, CNC lasers can process multiple parts simultaneously.
In addition, since the CNC laser machine is controlled by a computer. Therefore this ensures that every part produced has the same characteristics and functionality. This is very beneficial for high-volume production as it is vital to maintain the consistency of the parts.
Less Waste
The accuracy and precision of laser cutting eliminate the need to dispose of large amounts of scrap. Residual material can be a significant contributor to higher costs. This is especially true when dealing with precious and rare metals.
The cost of laser cutting necessarily involves the price of the material. Low scrap means you can get the job done with fewer resources. This allows you to increase efficiency without sacrificing results.
Minimal Damage or Defects
Laser cutting machines require less post-processing. This is because they produce extremely precise cuts. Laser cut edges are smooth and burr-free. In addition, the laser does not radiate heat throughout the object. Therefore, this reduces defects caused by thermal stress.
On the other hand, laser cutters also produce high-quality, high-precision cuts. As a result, quality checks become easier. A laser cutting machine ensures that all design aspects and specifications are included in the finished part, thus ensuring optimum performance.
Versatility
Laser cutting is extremely versatile. Even the most complex geometries can be handled by this method with reasonable simplicity and minimal waste. In addition to this, laser cutters can effortlessly cut any material with the same uniformity, accuracy, and efficiency. Examples include metals, polymers, wood, and other materials.
Conclusion
Laser cutting is a versatile process. It can cut extremely accurate parts. However, the cost of purchasing a laser cutting machine is very expensive. If you need customized laser cutting services at a good price, please contact us. Yonglihao Machinery can provide you with high-quality and cost-effective laser-cutting services.
FAQ
How Does a Laser Cutter Work?
A laser cutting machine uses a high-energy laser beam focused on the surface of a specific material. Cutting is then carried out by a thermal process. The laser cutter uses CNC coordinates to lay out a path for the laser cut material to cut the shape you need.
Is It Better to Buy a Laser Cutting Machine or Hire a Service?
Often, it is best to outsource your laser cutting business. This is because you can get quality professional services at a lower cost. In addition, doing so will help you avoid purchasing an expensive laser cutting machine.
Industrial laser cutting machines are somewhat expensive to install and have many maintenance and operational requirements. On the other hand, opting for laser cutting services can help you save yourself from these hassles.
In addition, some of the top laser cutting service providers offer other manufacturing facilities and design optimization services. This can ensure that you get consistent, accurate parts at the lowest possible cost.