Choosing A Cutting Method, Plamsa, Laser or Waterjet?

Choosing between the different cutting methods available can be tricky, but in the end it comes down to the material, its thickness and application of the finished parts.

For Plasma cutting, the recommended cutting thickness is between 15mm (0.59 inches) and 50 mm (2 inches).

For stainless steel and carbon the recommended thickness for a plasma cutting is about 50 mm (2 inches) and for aluminium it should not really exceed 40mm (1.5 inches).

For thickness’s in excess of those quoted above, should be handled by waterjet and/or flame cutting.

Laser cutting’s upper limit is about 25mm (1 inch) to 30mm (1.2 inches). Laser cutting is the recommended method for sheet metal and thinner plates because of its greater cutting speed and quality.

Plasma cutting is quicker and thus cheaper with thickness’s starting from around 15mm (0.59 inches).