United Tool & Machine offers laser cutting services for both metal and non-metal materials. Our fiber laser for cutting metal can hold a sheet up to 24”x48” and tubes up to Ø2”, cutting up to 0.250” thick stock. Our CO2 laser for cutting non-metals, can hold a sheet up to 48”x48” and can cut through much thicker parts depending on the material properties, as well as laser cutting and engraving. The laser beam is consistent enough to maintain tolerances as tight as ±.002”, making it ideal for precision laser cutting.
Laser Cutting Manufacturing Processes
The acronym LASER stands for Light Amplification Stimulated Emission Radiation. Laser cutting can be compared to cutting with a computer controlled miniature torch. Industrial precision laser cutting is designed to concentrate high amounts of energy into a small, well-defined spot. The width (or kerf) of the beam is approximately .003-.006” in diameter when using short wavelength lasers. The resulting heat energy created by the LASER melts, or vaporizes materials in this small-defined area, and a gas (or a mixture of) such as oxygen, CO2, nitrogen, and or helium is used to blow the vaporized material out of the resulting channel. The beam’s energy is applied directly where it is needed, minimizing the heat affected zone surrounding the area being cut to prevent flames, flashing, or overburn.
Laser Cutting Advantages
There is almost no limit to the cutting path of a LASER. The point can move in any direction. Small diameter holes that cannot be made with other machining processes can easily and quickly be done with a LASER.
The process is forceless, allowing very fragile or flimsy parts to be cut with little or no support. The part keeps its original shape from start to finish.
It is ideal when production quantities or prototyping does not justify producing tooling for stamping or die cutting.
Materials that cannot be machined by other means because of lack of conductivity, abrasiveness, or hardness can usually be cut using a LASER. Materials with high reflectivity can also be cut but special precautions must be taken.
Other Advantages
LASERS can cut at very high speeds. The speed at which materials can be processed is limited only by the power available from the laser. Laser cutting services are a very cost-effective process with low operating and maintenance costs and maximum flexibility.
With their speed, flexibility and accuracy Lasers have become an ideal choice for cutting and scribing the following materials:
- Leather, Fabric, Rubber
- Wood, Plywood, Wood Veneer, Cardboard, Paper Products, Matte-board, Plastics, Acrylic, Ceramics, Composites, Fiberglass, Foam, Laminates, Polyester, Delrin, Nylon, Mylar, Vinyl, Masonite Kevlar, Velcro, Teflon
- Ceramic Substrates, Alumina
- Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum
Applications & Industries Served
- Medical – Laser cut components for surgical instruments, diagnostic devices, and precision implant parts
- Aerospace – Brackets, shims, and lightweight structural elements used in aircraft assemblies
- Defense – Custom enclosures, targeting system components, and equipment tags
- Electronics – Circuit board shields, faceplates, and finely detailed panels
- General manufacturing – Machine guards, mounting plates, housings, and identification tags
Laser Cutting and Engraving Services
We offer precision laser cutting and engraving for a wide range of materials, including both metals and non-metals. The process delivers clean, accurate cuts without the need for physical contact, making it ideal for delicate parts and detailed features.
In addition to cutting, engraving services are available for permanent markings such as serial numbers, barcodes, logos, and product identification. This is especially useful for parts requiring traceability or branding. Whether the need is for one-off prototypes, small production runs, or ongoing manufacturing, laser cutting services are handled with speed and consistency. Projects range from technical components to visually finished parts, all completed to tight tolerances.
Complex Shapes? We’ll Cut Right Through It
Ready to get started on your next project? United Tool & Machine offers responsive service, fast quotes, and the precision laser cutting support you need to keep production on track. Whether you’re working with metal, plastic, or composite materials, our team is here to help. Upload your drawings or contact us to discuss your part requirements..