01How the process works
A focused laser beam melts the material and an assist gas (nitrogen or oxygen) blows it from the kerf. Nesting software arranges parts on sheets; the cut path, power, speed and focus determine edge quality.
Cut quality is classified by perpendicularity and roughness in ISO 9013. Dross on the bottom edge, oxide layers from oxygen cutting that prevent paint adhesion, and heat affected edges on hardened steels are the common issues.
- Nesting. Parts arranged on sheet.
- Set-up. Gas, focus, nozzle selected.
- Cutting. Pierce and cut along programmed paths.
- Unloading. Parts removed, micro joints broken.
- Deburr and inspect. Edges cleaned, dimensions checked.
02What typically goes wrong
| Defect | Typical cause | How it is found |
|---|---|---|
| Dross | Speed, gas pressure, focus | Visual |
| Edge taper and roughness | Parameters, nozzle wear | ISO 9013 grading |
| Oxide layer | Oxygen cutting | Visual, paint adhesion test |
| Burn marks and corner melting | Heat build-up | Visual |
| Dimensional error | Thermal distortion, calibration | Calipers, CMM |
| Wrong material or thickness | Sheet mix-up | Certificate, thickness |
03Where an inspector should look
01
Before production
- Edge quality class agreed
- Material grade and thickness
- Nest and part orientation to rolling direction
02
During production
- First part check
- Nozzle and lens condition
03
After production
- Dimensions and hole sizes
- Edge condition before painting
- Part marking and traceability
04Standards and references
ISO 9013 (thermal cutting quality), EN 10029 and EN 10051 (plate and sheet tolerances).
Standards are named for orientation. The applicable edition and acceptance criteria are those in your contract and specification.
05How we support buyers of laser cutting parts
Independent Quality ControlIncoming, in-process and final quality control performed independently at the supplier, with measured results and clear acceptance decisions.
Supplier Inspection and Production SurveillanceSource and shop inspection during manufacturing: raw material, in-process and final inspection, and production surveillance.