CNC Laser Cutting
Computer-controlled laser systems deliver micron-level precision cuts through steel, stainless, and aluminum with zero tool wear, enabling complex geometries and rapid production cycles for demanding fleet applications.
Where Speed Meets Surgical Precision
Laser cutting uses a focused beam of light amplified thousands of times to melt, burn, or vaporize material along a programmed path. The laser head moves at speeds up to 2,000 inches per minute while maintaining cut widths as narrow as 0.004". This combination of speed and precision makes laser cutting ideal for producing complex brackets, panels, and structural components where traditional fabrication methods fall short.
Why Laser Cutting Works
- No physical tool contact means zero tool wear or replacement costs
- Heat-affected zone measures only 0.010" - 0.020" wide
- Kerf width as narrow as 0.004" minimizes material waste
- Cut speeds up to 2,000 IPM for high-volume production
- Program changes take minutes, not hours with tooling
What We Fabricate
- Mounting brackets for auxiliary equipment
- Cargo management system components
- Custom rack and ladder support structures
- Equipment enclosures and access panels
- Reinforcement plates and gussets
Material and Machine Capabilities
Material Thickness Range
Cut mild steel up to 1.25", stainless steel up to 1", and aluminum up to 0.625" thick. Thinner gauges down to 24ga processed with equal precision.
60" x 120" Cutting Envelope
Full 5' x 10' sheet capacity eliminates piece-work and seams on large panels. Automated sheet loading maintains production flow for high-volume fleet builds.
Intelligent Nesting Software
CAM software calculates optimal part placement to maximize yield from each sheet. Common-line cutting reduces pierce points and cycle time on nested parts.
Edge Quality Standards
Cuts meet or exceed ASME Y14.36 Class 3 edge quality. Perpendicularity held to ±1° on most materials and thicknesses without secondary operations.
Production Advantages for Fleet Programs
Zero Setup Costs
No dies, punches, or fixtures required. Go from approved CAD file to first part in under an hour. This makes prototyping and small-batch production economically viable for fleet programs that traditionally required minimum order quantities in the hundreds.
Design Iterations Cost Nothing
Need to modify a bracket design after field testing? Update the CAD file and recut. No scrapped tooling, no setup charges. This flexibility accelerates the engineering cycle and ensures optimal designs before committing to full fleet deployment.
Material Traceability
Every sheet is tracked from receiving through cutting. Material certifications link to specific parts and serial numbers. Critical for government, utility, and telecom fleet operators with strict documentation requirements.
Scalability Without Compromise
Prototype quantities of 5 pieces or production runs of 5,000 - the process and quality remain identical. First article matches last article. This consistency is essential for fleet operators adding vehicles over multi-year deployment cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the thickest material you can laser cut?
Our fiber laser system cuts mild steel up to 1.25" thick, stainless steel (304/316) up to 1", and aluminum up to 0.625". We also process thinner gauges down to 24ga sheet metal. Material thickness capability depends on the specific alloy and required edge quality.
How does laser cutting compare to plasma cutting?
Laser cutting offers significantly tighter tolerances (±0.005" vs ±0.030"), narrower kerf width (0.004" vs 0.125"), and superior edge quality requiring minimal finishing. Laser also produces virtually no heat-affected zone distortion on thin materials. Plasma remains more cost-effective for cutting thick plate over 1".
Can you cut materials other than steel and aluminum?
Yes. We regularly cut galvanized steel, copper, brass, and titanium. Some specialized alloys like Inconel and Hastelloy can be processed but may require extended lead times for test cuts. We cannot cut reflective materials like polished copper or mirror-finish stainless without special precautions.
Do I need to provide CAD files or can you work from prints?
We prefer native CAD files (DXF, DWG, STEP, IGES) for fastest programming and highest accuracy. However, we can work from dimensioned 2D drawings and will generate CAD files for your approval before cutting. PDF drawings with clear dimensions are acceptable for simple geometries.
What tolerances can you hold on laser cut parts?
Standard tolerance is ±0.005" on linear dimensions and ±0.003" on hole locations. Perpendicularity is held to ±1° from vertical. Tighter tolerances down to ±0.002" are achievable on specific features with controlled material and optimized cutting parameters. These tolerances apply throughout the cutting envelope.
What's your typical lead time and can you expedite?
Standard production lead time is 5-7 business days from approved CAD files, assuming material is in stock. Rush service available with 24-48 hour turnaround on simple parts. Large volume orders (500+ pieces) typically require 2-3 weeks. Material availability is the primary variable - common grades like A36 mild steel and 304 stainless are stocked in multiple thicknesses.
Ready for precision laser cutting?
Contact our fabrication team to discuss how CNC laser cutting can deliver the precision components your fleet demands.