What happens after laser cutting? Next steps in sheet metal processing

Laser cutting is often a first step when producing sheet metal parts. It provides precise cuts and the right shape directly from the drawing. But in many cases, the part is not finished there. 

Depending on how the component is to be used, it moves on in production. It is only when several steps are combined that you get a finished part that can be used in practice. 

From drawing to laser-cut detail

It all starts with a drawing, usually in CAD format. From this, the part is cut out by laser in the right material and thickness. 

The result is a flat part with precise dimensions. For some simple components this may be sufficient, but in many cases more steps are needed before the part is ready. 

Moulding - when the sheet metal needs to get the right shape

After laser cutting many details need to be moulded. 

This can involve bending the sheet metal in a press brake or moulding it in a press, depending on the shape of the part. Here you go from a flat part to a component with angles or specific shapes. 

The method used depends on the design of the part, tolerances and the number of parts to be produced. 

Welding - when joining several parts

If a component is made up of several parts, they need to be assembled. 

It is done by welding, either manually or with robotic welding depending on requirements and volume. For welding to work well, the parts need to fit together correctly from the start, making laser cutting important at this stage too. 

The wrong fit can otherwise lead to more rework or adjustments in production. 

Assembly - the last step before the finished component

Once all the parts are machined and joined together, assembly remains. 

This may involve assembling several components into a larger unit or preparing parts for direct use in the next stage at the customer's premises.  

Laser cutting is part of the whole

Laser cutting is an important part of sheet metal workingbut rarely the only step. 

The quality of the end result depends on how the whole chain works, from cutting to forming, welding and assembly. It is the interaction between the steps that determines how well the part works in the end. 

Do you need help with sheet metal processing?

At Linde Maskiner, we work with sheet metal processing in several stages, from laser cutting to finished component. Whether it's a small series or larger volumes, we customise production according to drawings and requirements. 

Want to know more or need help with sheet metal processing? Contact us today, and we will help you further.