What’s Better for My Application: Laser Cutting, Plasma Cutting, or Water Jetting?

What’s the Difference Between Laser Cutting, Plasma Cutting, and Water jetting?

Laser cutting is a technology that uses high-powered lasers to cut through materials. A variety of industrial manufacturers depend on laser cutting’s precision, versatility, and cost-effectiveness to cut a range of materials for components. 

Metalcraft Solutions utilizes laser cutting technology to process sheet metal, rubber, and plastics. The two most common alternative technologies on the market include plasma and water jet cutting. Depending on the component’s size and needed precision, or urgency of the order, one cutting method may be better than the other. Continue reading below as we explore laser cutting, plasma cutting, and water jetting.

Laser Cutting

Businesses choose Metalcraft Solutions’ laser cutting services for precision, versatility, and speed. Laser cutting is an ideal option for a variety of industries, including:

• - Automotive
• - Aerospace
• - Medical device manufacturing
• - Ceramic manufacturing
• - Electronics
• - And many others

It’s a prominent component in sheet metal manufacturing, allowing you to pivot from one size and shape to another in the same setup. Geometries can be nested together on the same sheet for efficient material consumption, which saves time and money. 

Two Types of Laser Cutting: CO₂ and Fiber Optic

Metalcraft Solutions offers two types of laser cutting: CO₂ and fiber optic.

CO₂  Laser Cutting

CO₂ Laser Cutting uses pure oxygen, nitrogen, helium, or hydrogen as an assist gas thrusting the molten metal from the material to deliver a clean, precise cut. This technology works well with many types of metal and organic materials such as:

• - Steel
• - Rubber
• - Plastic
• - Wood
• - Glass
• - Cloth

However, there are a few types of material that due to their ability to reflect the laser beam back into the machine, cannot be used with this type of laser cutter.

Fiber Optic Laser Cutting

Fiber optic laser cutting is a relatively recent development, delivering an even cleaner cut. Diodes channel the laser through fiber optic cables and amplify it, delivering a remarkably precise laser to cut more reflective materials including:

• - Galvanized steel
• - Aluminum
• - Brass
• - Copper
• - And others

Each type of laser cutter has its limitations. Thicker metals and plates are often too strong for either method, making laser cutting an impractical choice for some components. While this is dependent on the type of machinery used, it’s wise to explore other methods or to speak with a specialist before choosing laser cutting.

Plasma Cutting

For an exceptionally fast process, plasma cutting is often the preferred method for a range of industries and components. While the process is similar to laser cutting, it doesn’t deliver the same accuracy and cost-effectiveness.

Consider plasma cutting the “roughneck” method of cutting: It trades accuracy for speed, with the ability to crudely cut inch-thick metal with relative ease. While this method isn’t the right option for those who require precise, intricate cuts, it’s an excellent option for components that will experience wear and tear once complete, including installation in:

• - Truck beds
• - HVAC components like ductwork
• - Industrial workspace components

Water Jetting

While laser cutting and plasma cutting are excellent options for cutting different types of metal, water jetting is a great choice for cutting non-metallic materials, including:

• - Glass
• - Wood
• - Paper
• - Rubber

But much like plasma cutting, water jetting sacrifices accuracy for speed, making it somewhat limited with the types of cuts it offers. This is especially true for thicker cuts. Water Jetting is best suited for thinner cuts and can often deliver a large order faster than laser cutting.