What laser cutting is
Laser cutting uses a focused beam to cut profiles from sheet or plate under CNC control. Because the cutting path comes from a digital file, the process is well suited to accurate shapes, holes, slots, tabs and repeat components that would be slow or difficult to produce by manual cutting.
For fabrication work, laser cutting is often the first stage rather than the finished job. A flat profile can move on to CNC bending, welding, machining, polishing or coating until it becomes the bracket, panel, enclosure, hopper, guard or assembly shown on the drawing.
Why use laser-cut parts in a fabrication?
- Complex profiles can be produced directly from CAD data
- Repeated parts can be cut consistently from the same file
- Holes, slots and locating features can be included in the blank
- Cut profiles can be prepared for folding and welded assembly
- Nesting parts efficiently can help make better use of sheet material
The exact result depends on the material, thickness and geometry, so the drawing should identify the finished requirement rather than relying on a generic cutting specification.
What to send for a laser cutting quote
A DXF is useful for the cutting profile, while a PDF drawing helps show dimensions, material, thickness, quantity and any notes that are not obvious from the flat geometry. DWG and STEP/STP files can also be attached through the Zeus quote form.
- Material and grade if known
- Thickness
- Quantity
- DXF or other CAD file where available
- Dimensioned PDF drawing
- Any bending, countersinking, machining, welding or finishing required afterwards
From flat profile to finished component
If you need more than an isolated cut blank, send the complete job. Zeus can quote the laser-cut component together with the forming, welding and finishing required to supply the finished fabrication. This is particularly useful for brackets, folded panels, housings, transitions and multi-part assemblies.
If you do not have a CAD file, send a drawing, sketch or photographs with dimensions. Zeus can review what information is needed to move the enquiry forward.
See genuine Zeus fabrication
The photographs below show work fabricated by Zeus. They give a practical indication of the type, finish and scale of work customers can discuss when sending a new enquiry.
Frequently asked questions
What file format should I send for laser cutting?
A DXF is commonly useful for the flat cutting profile, supported by a dimensioned PDF drawing. You can also attach DWG and STEP/STP files to the quote form.
Can laser-cut parts also be folded and welded?
Yes. Include the complete finished-part requirement so cutting, bending, welding and finishing can be considered in one quotation.
Can I ask for a quote without a DXF file?
Yes. Send the drawing, sketch, sample information or photographs you have. Zeus can identify whether additional CAD information is needed before manufacture.
Send the job for a quote
Send your drawing, quantity, material if known, finish requirement and delivery postcode. If you do not have a drawing, attach photographs and describe what you need the component to do.
Send us your drawing