5 Ways To Reduce Laser Cutting Costs

By Author: steven glassner
Total Articles: 153
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No doubt that fabricators and machine shops prefer quality laser cutters for custom and high volume jobs. However, you can't deny the fact that they are expensive despite being effective.

Many manufacturers even think that their cost of laser cutting is unsustainable. Do you think the same?

If yes, then you must read this article. Here we have listed five ways to cut on the laser cutter cost.

1. Research thoroughly

From buying a pen to a laser cutter, we are always taught to ask questions about the product. Its peculiarities, functioning method, tips for using, and cost.

If you have decided to use a laser cutter, you need to ask questions about cutting edge, laser power, and brand.

Consider why you need a product and what kind of work you want to accomplish with laser cutting equipment? Research everything about the equipment and then contact the retailer.

In this stage, while communicating with the retailer, ask questions about the laser cutter. Enquire about the available features, specific functions, laser power strength, etc. Learn about the equipment's launch, warranties ...
... and guarantees, and other terms and conditions. Knowing all this would help you make the right decision, and it would reduce unnecessary costs.

2. Use the flying cuts

Flying cuts means the laser is on when the head is moving. For other cuts, the laser turns on and off when the head stops moving. Implementing these would be beneficial for projects involving numerous holes. A no-break in between reduces the machinery time and optimizes productivity.

For projects involving thick sheet cutting, this solution may not work that well.

Tip: Try to group your laser projects as it can reduce waste.

3. Choose the sourcing method

Does your business rely heavily on laser cutting service providers?

Maybe, you are a jeweler and often need a laser cutting service to cut diamonds or other precious items.

You might want to consider if having an in-house laser cutter would be right or continue outsourcing the service.

Often, the option for in-house has a high weightage. However, the varying requirements, new materials, budget constraints, customers' requests, and time required can affect the final decision.

I am telling you this because sometimes the comfort of outsourcing may cost you double or triple the cost of having in-house equipment. For example, a jewelry designer realized that 44% of their average price went into laser cutting services, whereas the actual cost of the laser cut was $3995.

4. Evaluate the design

Before you activate the laser cutter, evaluate your designs. Narrow parts can add up the cost. So try to use Hypertherm spare parts and Hypertherm hpr260xd parts.

As for design, check if there are double lines or overlapping objects. The presence of overlapping lines means that the machine would cut it twice, increasing the costs and time.

Ensure that cutouts and designs are 1x more extensive than your materials' thickness. Otherwise, accuracy may decrease, and the machine won't cut it. All these may result in an additional cost for laser cutting projects. Thus, check the designs before you send it to the machine.

5. Keep up with maintenance

Many people think maintenance and repair are the same. Well, it is not. Repairing means to change/fix a part or component. Maintenance means to keep the machine in good condition by checking it on a timely basis.

So always maintain your laser cutters. Keep a logbook for recording it. Though a no maintenance check may look like a cost-savings option at present, in the long run, it would cost you more.

Last but not least, use high-quality Hypertherm spare parts or Hypertherm hpr260xd parts.

Final Thought

It might seem hard, but you can easily save a lot on your laser cutting equipment with these tips. Implement them and witness the changes for yourself.

Steve M Glassner is the General Manager of Alternative Parts Inc, the leading manufacturer and distributor of Amada machinery replacement parts. Steve is a Machine Tools industry enthusiast and frequently writes about various aspects of the industry.