poczta@prometalform.eu
+48 95 762 08 61
+48 95 762 08 61
Modern technologies of metal working
Laser beam cutting
Laser cutting of tubes and sections
Robotic welding
Sheet metal bending
+48 95 762 08 61
Laser beam cutting
Laser cutting of tubes and sections
Robotic welding
Sheet metal bending
Laser cutting of sheet metal, one of the most advanced metal processing methods, is widely used across various industries. The high dimensional precision achievable with modern lasers makes this technology particularly crucial wherever accuracy, repeatability, and quality of produced details matter. This article discusses key issues related to precision and dimensional tolerances in sheet metal laser cutting, as well as factors influencing the final accuracy of this process.
Laser cutting precision refers to how closely the dimensions of the produced component match the designed dimensions. In other words, it is the laser machine's capability to consistently reproduce the intended dimensions with minimal deviation from nominal values. Precision parameters are often expressed as dimensional tolerance values, i.e., permissible deviations from specified dimensions.
For sheet metal of standard thickness (up to approximately 6 mm), modern fiber lasers can achieve dimensional tolerances ranging from ±0.05 mm to ±0.1 mm, which is unattainable for many traditional processing methods such as mechanical or plasma cutting.
The precision achieved in laser cutting depends on numerous technological, material, and equipment factors, the most important of which include:
The most commonly used lasers for sheet metal cutting are CO₂ lasers and fiber lasers. Fiber lasers, characterized by shorter wavelengths and higher energy density, enable significantly higher cutting precision. The laser's power determines the cutting speed and depth of metal melting, directly affecting the quality of cut edges.
Thinner metal sheets allow greater dimensional accuracy. With thicker sheets (above 10-15 mm), tolerances are somewhat larger, typically ranging from ±0.1 mm to ±0.3 mm. The material itself is also critical—stainless steel or aluminum, due to their structure and thermal conductivity, can yield different precision results compared to carbon steel.
Optimal cutting speed is a critical parameter influencing dimensional quality. Excessive speed may result in irregular edges or incomplete cuts, whereas too slow a speed widens the kerf and increases the heat-affected zone, thus reducing precision.
The optical system responsible for guiding and focusing the laser beam plays a decisive role. High-quality optics and precisely calibrated lenses ensure a stable and focused beam, directly translating into narrow and precise cutting kerfs.
Modern laser cutting machines are equipped with dimensional control systems allowing continuous monitoring of cutting parameters. Optical sensors, vision systems, and temperature compensation systems ensure consistent high quality throughout the production cycle.
In industrial practice, implementing continuous process optimization procedures is crucial. Regular maintenance and calibration of equipment, as well as analysis of measurement data, allow not only maintaining consistent tolerances but also improving them over time.
In the metal industry, ISO standards for general dimensional tolerances (e.g., ISO 2768) are commonly accepted references. However, specific requirements for laser cutting are often defined by more detailed guidelines, such as DIN EN ISO 9013, which defines cutting quality ranges and allowable geometric deviations of cut edges for metal components.
Applications of laser cutting technology include a wide range of industries, such as:
In each of these industries, the dimensional precision achieved by laser cutting is critically important for the functionality and quality of the final product.
Precision and dimensional tolerances in sheet metal laser cutting are fundamental indicators of this technology's quality. With modern fiber lasers and advanced process control systems, it is possible to achieve accuracy measured in hundredths of a millimeter. Implementing best practices and optimizing the production process fully leverages laser technology's potential, effectively responding to increasingly stringent demands of the contemporary metal market.