Tag Archives: steel plasma cutting

Blog

Laser Cutting Metals: Things to Know

February 20, 2023 Editor

Laser cutting has become a popular and efficient method of metal fabrication, thanks to its precision, speed, and versatility. This process uses a high-powered laser to melt, vaporize or burn through the material, leaving a clean and accurate cut. However, not all metals can be laser cut, and there are both advantages and disadvantages to this method. In this article, we will discuss what metals can be laser cut, the benefits and drawbacks of laser cutting, prep work before laser cutting, types of laser cutting, and the best laser for cutting metal.

What metals can be laser cut?

Laser cutting is suitable for a wide range of metal materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, titanium, and more. However, some metals, such as reflective materials like copper and brass, can be more challenging to laser cut due to their high reflectivity. In such cases, specialized techniques or equipment may be required to ensure successful results.

Advantages of laser cutting:

There are many advantages to laser cutting, which is why it has become such a popular method of metal fabrication. These benefits include:

Precision: Laser cutting can produce extremely precise cuts, with tolerances as small as 0.1mm. This accuracy makes it possible to create complex and intricate designs.

Speed: Laser cutting is a fast process that can cut through materials quickly, making it a time-efficient method of fabrication.

Versatility: Laser cutting can be used on a wide range of metal materials, making it a versatile method of fabrication.

Clean cuts: Laser cutting leaves clean and smooth cuts, without the need for additional finishing or polishing.

Disadvantages of :

Despite its many advantages, there are also some disadvantages to laser cutting. These drawbacks include:

High cost: The cost of laser cutting equipment can be high, and the process itself can be more expensive than other methods of fabrication.

Limited thickness: Laser cutting is not suitable for cutting through very thick materials.

Heat damage: The intense heat generated during laser cutting can cause heat damage to the material and surrounding areas.

Prep work before laser cutting

Before laser cutting, it is essential to properly prepare the material to ensure the best results. This prep work can include cleaning the material, securing it in place, and creating a digital design file for the laser cutter to follow. It is also important to consider the orientation of the material, as this can affect the quality of the cut.

Types of lasers cutting

There are two main types of lasers cutting: CO2 laser cutting and fiber laser cutting. CO2 laser cutting is suitable for cutting through thicker materials, while fiber laser cutting is better suited for thinner materials. CO2 laser cutting is also more versatile and can cut through a wider range of materials.

What is the best laser for cutting metal?

The best laser for cutting metal depends on the specific needs and requirements of the job. CO2 lasers are better for thicker materials, while fiber lasers are better for thinner materials. When choosing a laser cutting machine, it is important to consider factors such as the power of the laser, the size of the work area, and the level of automation.

In conclusion, laser cutting is a versatile and efficient method of metal fabrication that can produce precise and clean cuts. While there are some disadvantages to this process, the benefits far outweigh them. By understanding what metals can be laser cut, the advantages and disadvantages of laser cutting, and the prep work and types of laser cutting available, you can choose the best method for your specific metal fabrication needs. Heavy Duty Band Saw Cutting

We are specialized in commercial STEEL PLASMA CUTTING SERVICES,

5 incredible benefits of Steel Plasma Cutting

Metal manufacturers and suppliers often offer a combination of metal cutting and bending
services for the best results. When we talk about plasma cutting, let us understand what we
mean. The plasma cutter is the most popular tool in this industry for metal fabrication work
as it gives fine-tuned and precise results, which is very useful in the manufacturing of
customized metal products. The action of cutting is performed with the help of a plasma
torch. Gas is sent at a very high speed. The gas passes through a nozzle and, with the help of
an electrical arc, the metal melts. Compressed air is used to blow away the metal that is
melted.

1. Easy to use: Tool which comes with simple instructions and gives best results is always
welcome. The portability of plasma cutter makes it all time favourite with the metal
manufacturers. They can carry it wherever they want as per the demand of the work
and the project. So, if onsite cutting is required, it can also be done with ease.

2.. Precision cutting: The biggest advantage of plasma cutting technology is it has
precision cutting. This is also true that it requires the touch of an experienced hands
to get perfect cut but with plasma cutter, it is a cake walk to get angles, designs cut on
a metal sheet with exact precision.

3. Versatility: One cannot measure the versatility of the plasma cutter, with it, we can
cut different types of metal without much problem. With the help of electric arc, it
can cut any type of metal whether iron, aluminum, steel or copper or any other. It is
also considered to be cost-effective as well as energy-efficient option for cutting. In
fact, it can cut metal stacked on top of one another.

4. Fast Piercing: The speed at which plasma cutter can pierce and cut, is much better
than other cutting methodologies. There is no heating time required for preparing the
tool for cutting, so it makes it really faster and easier at the same time.

5. Low-cost maintenance: Wear and tear in the plasma cutter is much lower than other
tools. This brings down the cost considerably and also gives good results. It rarely
requires change or replacement and can work for years. This makes it value for money
with good return on investments both for the metal fabricators and the customers.

Besides, these five benefits of plasma cutting are also good for cutting metals fast as it brings
the time by one-fourth in compared to other techniques and helps in timely completion of
projects. This even brings down the cost of the total project as time is reduced with better
work quality.

Omni Steel Supply are professional metal fabricators and welders and offers services both for
commercial and residential purposes. They have different metal cutting and bending
technologies but they also consider plasma cutting, the best way to get the most effective
metal cutting results. If you are looking for a plasma cutter and would want more details, get
in touch with us today.

Steel Plasma Cutting Process

Plasma is an ionized gas, which when passed in a controlled stream can cut metal of any thickness and
density. The pressurized gas can either be nitrogen, oxygen or argon or can be any other, the idea is
gas has to pass via a spark, and should give out a controlled stream of plasma. A plasma torch can
instantly touch 40,000 F, and gives the convenience of penetrating through almost all types of heavy and
thick materials. For this reason, it is preferred over several other cutting processes but we must mention
here, cutting process entirely depends on the type of work. In some projects, laser cutting or drilling
or grinding or water jet could be much more effective. It is recommended before opting for the metal cutting
process, it is best to consult an expert.
Why Plasma Cutting for metals? Let us divide this section into three parts for a better understanding of the process, first plasma
components, then the form of plasma cutting, and finally the reason for using the process.

1. Plasma Components: The said system has three basic components for cutting, it is these which
help in controlling the release of pressurized gas and control the cutting work. Power Supply,
the temperature control ensures plasma arc is functioning properly. Then, there’s Arc Starting
Console, that is helpful in streaming the spark that passes from the plasma torch. The third
component is the Plasma Torch, which does the work of cutting with precision and also cooling of
the metals.

2. Forms of Plasma Cutting: Broadly, plasma cutting can be segregated into two sections—
Precision and Conventional. The names are self-explanatory, a precision methodology is
instrumental when the aim is to achieve precise work and the arc design is determined by the
nature of the work. Whereas, the conventional method is effective when precision work is not a
necessity and tolerance point of the metal is low. Choice of plasma cutting forms solely
depends upon the type of the metal and requirement of a project.

3. Reason for using Plasma Methodology: The main reasons which play a big role in our decision
is cost and the time. Plasma, as such gives efficient work in lesser time and also brings down
the cost. The other factor, important to consider is the thickness of the metal. With
advancements in plasma steel cutting technology, a lot of projects can be completed in less
time, and goal is reached within the budget. It is overall regarded as more practical and result-oriented cutting technology over others.

Omni Steel Supply deals in the plasma steel cutting process and we have used this for the completion of
several of our projects. If you seek more information on it or require further clarity on the process, we
are only a call away. You can ask as many questions as you want for your next steel projects and create
beautiful steel products. We deal in all kinds of metal cutting works and can handle both big and small
projects for commercial and residential sectors.

Fill up the form below, to get a call from us!

https://www.omnisteelsupply.com/contact-us/

5 Simple and Fast ways to Cut Steel

What are the 5 ways of cutting steel?

1. Use of circular saw: It may not be the most used equipment but apparently it has
been realised, with the right kind of blade, circular saw is great at giving the shape
one is looking for, especially for small home projects. Yes, you do need to remember
to wear your gear before working with this tool as sharp, small pieces of the metal
can fly and hit you. To avoid accidents, do not forget to take adequate precautions.

2. Use of Flame Cutting Method: For small projects, Flame cutting with gas or torch or
with an oxygen tank can also be used. Remarkable feature of flame cutting is, it can
penetrate through thick metals and can be done in the field. With professional guidance, it is easier to achieve the results with this methodology.

3. Use of Grinding Disc: When thickness of steel or metal is a challenge, then a metal
fabricator or contractor, take use of grinding disc. They balance the disc with the right
type of rotary or abrasive disc which can do the job efficiently.

4. Use of Plasma Cutting: Professional metal fabricators use this method for bulk
orders. It is comparatively low cost and does the work at a very high speed. It brings
down overall expense and helps in achieving a neat metal cutting work of shaping
steel or other metals in NY or Jamaica.

5. Use of Oscillating Tool: It is a great tool for plumbing purposes as cutting pipes or
may be bolts and nails or several other metal materials. This is helpful to professional
cutters when it is tough to fit large tools. We only need to ensure the oscillating tool
has been fitted with the correct steel cutting blade for realising the dream of perfect
shape of the metal.
As professional metal fabricators, we at Omni Steel Supply would also like to share a couple of working tips, if you are planning to do-it-yourself.

● Always remember to wear gloves, glasses and a helmet to protect yourself from any
kind of injury. During metal cutting, fine pieces of metal tend to fly and hit the person.
● Use of the correct blade depending on the thickness and size of the metal sheet.
● Do not touch metal which has been cut recently, let it cool down.
● Do not allow anyone to come near you while doing the work.
● Last but not the least, read the instructions carefully before using the metal cutting
tools.
For more information on metal cutting and other tools, we at Omni Steel Supply have a vast
range of metal cutting equipment. You just need to fill in the form below to get quotes from us.

For efficient services and fast turnaround ring us at +1 (718 523 5400 ) or visit our Website to get more insights https://www.omnisteelsupply.com/services/