Purchasing a CNC machine is a great way to increase your manufacturing capabilities. When you require more metals to be cut or just need to increase your production levels, purchasing a CNC machine should be a no-brainer. It actually becomes a tough decision to make when your start choosing between different types of machines. CNC Plasma, Laser or WaterJet? Which one is the right cutting option for you? To answer this question you should be aware of CNC machine capabilities and whether they match your industrial cutting goals.
CNC Plasma
Plasma provides an optimal mix of cut quality, productivity and operating cost for mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum across a wide range of thickness at a competitive capital equipment price. With a CNC Plasma you can expect fast cutting speeds, extremely high tolerances and excellent edge quality. Plasmas are most productive on steel from ¼” to 2” thickness, so if that is what you are mostly going to cut – it would be the best choice for you. Compared to Lasers and WaterJets, Plasmas also have a lower purchase price and operating cost.
“Plasma provides an optimal mix of cut quality, productivity and operating cost for mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum.”
You can learn more about MultiCam CNC Plasma machines here. We offer a wide range of machines from Value-Series Plasma to 6000 Series Plasma for large-format, heavy-duty jobs.
CNC Laser
A CNC Laser would be the best choice for those working with thin materials – Lasers provide excellent cut quality on materials less than 6 mm thick. You can also expect high productivity with an ability to cut a broad thickness range with good tolerances (up to 30mm or 1 ¼”). However, compared to Plasmas and WaterJets, Laser technology has higher capital equipment, running and maintenance costs, therefore a high level of business volume is required to pay back the costs of the equipment.
“A CNC Laser would be the best choice for those working with thin materials.”
You can learn more about MultiCam range of CNC Lasers here.
CNC WaterJet
WaterJets would be a perfect choice for a manufacturer working with a wide range of materials – they can cut virtually any material. They also perform best when the material that is being cut can’t have any heat affected zone or mechanical stress – all due to its excellent edge finish. What’s more, WaterJets require very few consumables and eliminate any need for secondary operations (grinding, dross removal).
“WaterJets require very few consumables and eliminate any need for secondary operations.”
The MultiCam WaterJet line comes in three strategic frame styles – all powered by high-pressure WaterJet intensifiers. You can learn more here.
Here at MultiCam we are dedicated to providing our customers with the right answers and giving them everything they need to stay a cut above the competition. If you have any additional questions or looking to schedule a demo, we are always glad to help.
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