3 Ways To Minimize Your Laser Cutting Costs

Posted on: 7 October 2021

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Laser cutting is a custom metal fabrication technique that can help you produce parts quickly. Many companies choose laser cutting because it produces a barely perceptible cut edge, unlike other forms of metal fabrication. Laser cutting can also be used with materials of varying sizes and metal materials. This versatility provides companies with a wide range of options when it comes to component production. If your company relies heavily on laser cutting services, here are some simple things that you can do to help minimize your laser cutting costs in the future.

1. Invest in a Prototype

All metal components start out as designs on a sheet of paper. It can be difficult to translate a two-dimensional design into a three-dimensional product using only your mind. It's critical that you invest in a prototype when you are utilizing laser cutting services.

The prototype allows you to see and feel a real example of the component that will be created. You have the ability to make adjustments to the design after viewing the prototype. Only when you are completely satisfied with the design of your component should you place a bulk order. Using a prototype will prevent you from wasting money on laser cutting that produces components you can't use.

2. Evaluate Material Choices

One of the benefits laser cutting provides is the ability to use a wide range of metal materials in your component production. You should take the time to evaluate the material choices you are making if you want to minimize your laser cutting costs.

Each metal has an optimal cutting thickness that facilitates the laser cutting process. If you select a metal whose thickness exceeds this optimal measurement, additional time and labor will be required to complete your components. Pairing the right material with your design can help minimize the amount of money you spend on laser cutting services over time.

3. Use Trial Batches

Even if you select the right materials and invest in a prototype, it's impossible to predict how your finished components will perform. You can keep your laser cutting costs low by using trial batches before you purchase a significant order.

Trial batches let you test out different materials and designs to determine which will perform best over time. You won't waste money ordering laser cutting services for thousands of components when you use trial batches to tweak your design until it's perfect.

Contact a metal fabrication service near you to learn more.