Laser and water jet cutting are two of the fastest & most accurate ways of computer numerical controlled (CNC) cutting in the sheet metal fabrication industry. Both of these cutting tools offer precision and flexibility, minimize waste and so are easily programmable with CAD/CAM or nesting software.
Both laser and water jet cutters have distinct advantages over a number of the more traditional cutting methods. They could be used with a number of materials besides sheet metal, such as marble, glass, plastics and acrylic. They are also a lot more efficient than traditional machine tool cutting with regards to smaller orders that might be more specialized or require greater detail.
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Fabrication software allows a programmer to input information that will direct a cutting tool to move along a design path with the goal of cutting out a piece or part exactly as it was used. There is absolutely no better tool for executing the precise cutting of a programmed pattern than a laser cutting machine. When coupled with quality CNC laser software, lasers can perform very detailed cutting functions offering holes, slots and complex design patterns.
However, laser machines do have their limitations. When working with a laser cutter, the more wattage the deeper the cutting ability. Lasers are extremely quick and accurate when used to cut thinner metals. However when thicker metal can be used, "heat zones" can develop that will sometimes melt more sensitive metals or cause unevenness or rough spots in the material.
Therefore, laser cutting thicker metals is impractical not merely because of possible damage to the material, but since it is more expensive. If heat zones or hot spots occur from overexposing the metal to the laser, extra work such as grinding the part could become necessary. This will increase labor and material expenses, in addition to the higher costs associated with more energy usage.
Water Jet Cutting
But not as precise as laser cutting, water jet cutting has the capacity to cut thicker material without causing damage. Considered an "abrasive" process, water jet cutting uses an abrasive material combined with water in a highly concentrated stream to "erode" or breakdown the material being cut.
Though there may be some sanding or finishing involved after processing a bit, water jetting tools are a lot more acceptable to be utilized with thicker materials together with the ones that are sensitive and vunerable to damage under extreme heat.
However, precautions must also be studied when cutting metal with a water jet tool. The material should be dried immediately after cutting in order to avoid rusting. Also, since a cut from the water jet machine isn't as even or clean as when using a laser, the edges of the cut usually should be sanded or grinded. The piece must be "finished" so as to smooth it out and make it ready for possible welding.
Overall, both water jet cutting and laser cutting have their advantages. Water jet cutting is often less expensive, but that can also depend on how big is the job and the thickness of the material used. When applied to thinner, more detailed parts from sheet metal, a variety of top-line fabrication software and an excellent laser cutting machine may be the optimal scenario for producing quality parts quickly.