services
Laser Cutting
Laser Focused Precision and Efficiency
Harness the speed and efficiency of light with HSI’s laser-cutting services.
Our suite of lasering equipment, featuring both CO2 and Fiber Optic technologies, allows us to produce cost-effective solutions from a wide variety of materials and thicknesses. Whether cutting or etching, laser’s high energy density and precise control make it ideal for intricate and high-precision machining operations.
Beyond offering virtually unlimited flexibility in terms of design complexity, laser-cut pieces require little to no tooling or finishing prior to subsequent processes.
Especially cost-effective for prototypes or projects where lower production volumes make traditional fabrication methods impractical, laser-cutting provides exceptionally accurate results with significant time and cost savings.
Laser Cutting Advantages
- Rapid profiling for quick turnaround on prototypes and complext parts
- Eliminates the need for blanking dies
- Precise and accurate cuts, contours, and capable of handling intricate details
- Compatible with many materials and thicknesses
- Efficient use of material with less waste
- Designs are easily modified with little to no tooling required
Laser Cutting Industries
Due to their versatile nature, and high degree of precision, efficiency, and flexibility, laser-cut parts are used in a diverse range of industries, such as:
Automotive
Intricate, yet durable parts, brackets and components for personal, commercial and recreational vehicles.
Aerospace
Lightweight frames, brackets, and components meeting strict quality and tolerance standards.
Electronics
Small, precise components for metal connectors, enclosures and heat sinks.
Defense and Military
Durability, precision and high material strength for vehicle, aircraft, marine and weaponry components.
Agriculture
Parts and components rugged enough to perform under demanding and ever-evolving conditions.
Security Components
Highly detailed, high tolerance parts ensuring secure and tamper-proof keycard readers, lock components and equipment enclosures.
FAQ’s
What is laser cutting, and how does it work?
Laser cutting is a technology that uses a high-powered laser beam to precisely cut, engrave, or etch materials. It works by directing the laser beam onto the material, melting, burning, or vaporizing it to create a clean cut.
What types of metal can be laser cut?
Laser cutting is suitable for a wide range of metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, brass. copper and titanium.
What are the advantages of laser cutting over other cutting methods?
Laser cutting provides high precision, a smooth finish, reduced waste, and the ability to cut intricate designs. It’s typically faster than traditional methods, which helps reduce production times and costs.
How thick can metal be for laser cutting?
The maximum thickness varies depending on the type of laser and the metal, but in general, our lasers can typically achieve approximately 25 mm for carbon steel, 20 mm for stainless steel, and 15 mm for aluminum.
What tolerances can be achieved with laser cutting?
Laser cutting offers very tight tolerances, usually within .±0.1 mm, depending on the material and machine capabilities. This high precision makes it ideal for applications where accuracy is critical.
Is laser cutting cost-effective for large production runs?
Yes, laser cutting is often cost-effective for both large and small production runs due to its speed and reduced setup time. However, factors like material type, thickness, and design complexity can affect the overall cost.
What types of designs can be cut with laser?
Laser cutting can handle complex shapes, intricate patterns, and detailed engravings that other cutting methods struggle with. Designs with tight cures, small holes, and sharp angles are all feasible with laser cutting.
How fast is the laser cutting process?
Speed depends on material thickness, type and laser power (wattage). Generally, laser cutting is a fast process, with speeds ranging from several meters per minute for thin material to a slower rate for thicker ones.
How does laser cutting affect the material’s edge quality?
Laser cutting typically produces a smooth, burr-free edge that often requires minimal post-processing. The edge quality depends on the laser’s settings and material type, but it often eliminates the need for secondary finishing.
What is the environmental impact of laser cutting?
Due to its precise cuts and efficient nesting of parts to each sheet, laser cutting minimizes the amount of material used, producing less scrap (waste) than traditional cutting methods. Lasers, particularly fiber optic lasers, are highly energy-efficient and use significantly less energy to operate than do mechanical cutting methods.
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Let us get your parts in the hands of your customers soon.er.