We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
If you’re passionate about metal cutting or just keen to learn more, you’ve landed in the right place.
For over 38 years, Amber Steel has been at the forefront of metal cutting services, specializing in laser cutting, flame cutting, and plasma cutting. Our expertise has carved a niche in this cutting-edge industry, delivering precision and excellence across industrial projects big and small.
In our blog, we’ll share a mix of useful tips, innovative applications, our thoughts on sustainability in steel cutting, and more. Expect stories from the cutting floor, insights into how our processes can streamline projects across industries, and a few lessons we’ve learned along the way.
While we keep some of our trade secrets under wraps, this blog is designed to offer valuable nuggets of wisdom that you simply won't find anywhere else. Whether you’re a professional in the industry or someone fascinated by the possibilities of metal cutting, you'll find something of value here.
So, stick with us as we delve into the finer points of metal work. We’re glad to share our insights and lead discussions that matter to our industry.
How precision metal cutting propels the aerospace industry, from constructing lighter frames to enhancing aerodynamics.
The role of advanced metal cutting in automotive manufacturing, driving innovations in vehicle design and efficiency.
All about the robust and versatile process of flame cutting, ideal for tackling thicker metals with precision and ease.
Discover the art of crafting metal furniture, where cutting techniques meet design to create both functional and aesthetic pieces.
A behind-the-scenes look at the mechanics of metal cutting technologies and the science that makes them tick.
Laser cutting is where extreme precision meets efficiency, allowing for intricate designs and clean finishes.
The critical role of precise steel cutting in developing reliable and intricate medical devices.
How steel cutting supports the oil and gas industry with components that withstand extreme environments and pressures.
Known for its speed and versatility, plasma cutting slices through conductive metals with hot plasma.
Safety first! Tips and insights on maintaining a safe environment while handling powerful metal cutting equipment.
The backbone of construction, where steel fabrication and cutting technologies create frameworks that shape skylines.
Sustainability
A look at sustainability in metal cutting, focusing on practices that reduce waste and conserve energy to protect our planet.
According to its very namesake, laser cutting technology is the pinnacle of modern fabrication evolution. However, it’s almost impossible to look past the amazing strides technology has taken - this laser cutting machine is nearly unrecognizable from the tech that existed a decade ago.
From speed to efficiency, there are plenty of reasons fabricators invest in up-and-coming laser technology. One of the most interesting and forward-thinking features today is the level of automated tasks the top-of-the-line systems can do.
Today, the strained labour market means we need technology to keep us above the curve, promoting ongoing and fast production without fear that a lack of staff could be a hindrance. Luckily, modern day laser cutting technology has the automated solutions and tools to get the job done – and Amber Steel plans to explore that today.
Once upon a time, a laser CNC operator would have to be completely engaged in the process of cutting from start to finish to ensure the highest quality product. They would have to provide inspections, maintain the equipment, and overall be more hands-on with the process.
Today, things are a little simpler.
That isn’t to say that modern day operators don’t have to be involved with the process, but there is limited need for continuous intervention as far as people are concerned. Now, an operator is trained to be familiar with a machine in a shorter amount of time while the machine handles a lot of the heavy lifting - maximizing efficiency and allowing for greater and more precise production.
Machines are now being designed for ease of access when it comes to learning technology, making it akin to learning something on an easier digital device - sort of like an iPad. These touch screen panels make it possible to complete tasks with a few taps and swipes. You wouldn’t have seen anything like this in the early stages of technology.
Before laser cutting technology reached its peak, the only way to realistically cut metal and other material was the old-fashioned way: say with like a saw or other tools. However, many metals are simply too strong to cut through with common tools, or they’re too dense so that trying to hack away at it is literally dangerous to the operator. Not to mention the edges won’t be smooth, and nobody likes that.
Plain and simple - laser cutting technology has completely revolutionized the industrial process. Laser cutting has made production simpler to cut materials of all different types and is certainly a lot safer than taking a saw to a hunk of metal. Trust us - we haven’t tried it, but the professionals at Amber Steel know a thing or two about how metal reacts to certain processes.
Laser cutting has taken several industrial processes and skyrocketed them into the future and has eliminated a lot of outdated engineering machinery. Following the plasma cutter, laser cutting is a much more precise and energy efficient technique of cutting materials ranging from aluminum to steel.
Let’s take a closer look at how laser cutting technology has advanced the innovation of the industrial sector:
Complex shapes: Laser cutting can create intricate designs and patterns with unparalleled precision.
Reduced errors: The technology minimizes human error, leading to consistent product quality.
Tight tolerances: Components can be produced with extremely close tolerances, improving performance and assembly.
High-speed cutting: Laser cutting is a rapid process, increasing production output.
Reduced setup time: No tooling is required, leading to faster job changeovers.
Automation: Laser cutting machines can be integrated into automated production lines.
Wide range of materials: Lasers can cut through various materials, including metals, plastics, wood, and fabrics.
Consistent quality: The cutting process produces clean edges and smooth finishes across different materials.1
Reduced material waste: Laser cutting minimizes material loss due to its precision.
Lower labour costs: Automation and reduced setup times contribute to lower labor expenses.
Longer tool life: No physical cutting tools are used, eliminating the need for frequent replacements.
Rapid prototyping: Laser cutting enables quick creation of prototypes for testing and refinement.
Customization: Complex and customized designs can be produced efficiently.
Reduced waste: Minimal material waste and clean cutting process contribute to a smaller environmental footprint.
Energy efficiency: Advanced laser technology often incorporates energy-saving features.
Automotive: Creating complex car body parts, exhaust systems, and interior components.
Aerospace: Manufacturing aircraft parts with high precision and complex geometries.
Electronics: Producing circuit boards, enclosures, and other components.
Medical device manufacturing: Creating precise and sterile medical instruments.
Construction: Cutting metal and plastic components for building structures.
Over more than a decade, the laser cutting industry has gone through a transformative evolution, including expanding its advancements in key notable areas that increase it’s overall efficiency.
Historically, cutting thicker materials even with laser technology was challenging when it comes to achieving a smooth, consistent edge quality because of material inconsistencies. However, as the demand for this industrial process has increased, so has the demand for steel manufacturers to develop what we call “laser-grade” materials with smoother, mill-scale surfaces that are perfect for laser cutting. Fabricators can now process even thick steel material with more precision and edge reliability.
It was really the improvements in nozzle design that made it possible to cut through thicker materials - not just the materials themselves. Coaxial flow nozzles, which provide consistent gas flow, have become essential when producing high-quality edges in materials up to 1.25 inches thick.
As laser cutting technology has expanded, it can handle complex processes to achieve optimal results. Laser cutting machine manufacturers developed far more sophisticated controllers to help simplify the process and ensure that products come out consistent and high quality - all while requiring less experienced operators. The ease of access enables shorter training times.
Looking towards the future, laser cutting technology is anticipated to experience even more breakthroughs as the years go by. Several trends are starting to emerge in terms of technological advancements that are expected to shape the landscape of loser cutting in the foreseeable future.
It’s anticipated that future laser cutting systems are going to be geared to have higher power levels while maximizing improved energy efficiency, thereby making the technology greener. This will make it possible to increase the speed of processing thicker materials with more precision, expanding the machinery's applications.
The combination of laser cutting technology with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning is set to completely revolutionizing the industry. The idea is that the AI-driven system will be able to optimize overall cutting parameters while being able to self-predict maintenance needs, adapting to changing workpieces in real time efficiently and accurately. These machines are projected to have algorithms to predict and prevent potential pitfalls, reducing the need for downtime and material waste.
Hybrid laser cutting systems are projected to combine both laser cutting along with other processes such as waterjet cutting or milling to increase efficiency. This will greatly increase the machine’s versatility, especially when having to work with challenging materials.
We’re looking forward to quantum laser technology, promising laser generators with absolutely unparalleled precision and energy efficiency. The future of quantum laser cutting provides unchallenged control at the atomic and molecular level, opening the possibility to process materials utilizing quantum computing.
Laser-cutting technology is no-doubt going to continue to evolve to accommodate new advanced materials, including materials used in unique sectors like healthcare and aerospace. As new materials become in demand, the ability to precisely cut them into smooth shapes will open new possibilities.
Laser cutting and additive manufacturing (think of 3D printing, for example) can complement each other greatly. Joining these technologies enables precise and rapid fabrication of complex structures, which opens prospects for newer and improved product design. This convergence is projected to gain traction within the automotive, aerospace, and healthcare industries, respectively.
As laser cutting technology becomes more and more integrated into the manufacturing sector, the requirement for greater connectivity and stronger cybersecurity will become paramount. Protecting your intellectual property and maintaining the reliability of these laser cutting machines.
The future of laser cutting is settled in adaptive systems that can intelligently adjust in real-time based on the material being processed and the desired results. These systems will use AI to help optimize cutting parameters to increase production efficiency and the final product's quality.
Amber Steel has been an industry leader in steel cutting through laser, plasma, and flame cutting technology since 1986, making us some of the most knowledgeable in the business. Servicing within 100 km (about 62.14 mi) of the Waterloo Region, we have ready-for-production parts for several customers operating across multiple sectors - from mining, to automotive, construction, and technology.
For more information on how you can best utilize this revolutionary laser cutting technology, contact us today.
