Laser cutting of aluminium: thinking about assembly before cutting

A laser-cut aluminium part usually has a purpose: to fasten equipment, close a box, receive a bend, or connect to another component. Thinking about this purpose before cutting helps to prepare a drawing that the workshop can analyse with fewer doubts.

The outline is only one part of the order. The alloy, thickness, holes, and finish must respond to what will happen later. A plate that looks adequate from above may need a different solution when it goes into assembly.

Identify the aluminium required by the project

When the project specifies an alloy and a supply condition, include this information. If you only know that you want aluminium, describe the application and subsequent operations. The selection should consider the assembly, not just the ease of contour cutting.

Will you be bending, welding, anodizing, or painting? Indicate this in the initial contact. These requirements can influence the choice of material and the preparation of the work. Also confirm if the supply of the sheet metal is the responsibility of the workshop.

Show how the holes work in the assembly

Mark the holes that need to align with other parts. If there are slots for adjustment, explain what the desired movement is. An overview of the assembly helps to understand which measurements condition the fit and which allow for more variation.

Distinguish holes that are simply cut from holes that require another operation. Threads, countersinks, and specific adjustments should not be implied by a circle drawn in the file. Ask that they be considered separately when necessary.

Bends should be studied before cutting

If the part will undergo bending, send the final drawing with the desired angles and dimensions. The preparation of the flat development should be agreed upon with whoever performs the bending. Cutting first and deciding on the shape later may force the part to be reworked.

Inform about the orientation of the assembly and the elements that will be nearby. A bend can alter access to a screw or prevent the entry of a tool. A test with a first piece can clarify these issues.

Define what needs to be visible

Aluminium can be delivered for direct use or proceed to further finishing. State which faces are visible and if there are areas that require protection during handling. A reference photograph helps, especially when there are other parts with which the assembly must match.

If the finish adds thickness to the contact surfaces, this effect must be considered in the fitting areas. The goal is to evaluate the part ready for assembly, with all planned operations.

Confirm capacity before finalizing the drawing

At Lumiinox, aluminium thicknesses and tolerances are confirmed by analysing the order. Capacity depends on the geometry and finishing requirements. See the page for laser cutting to learn about the service.

To Request a quote, send the file, quantity, material, and application. Add subsequent operations and the desired deadline. If a reference part already exists, also show how it connects to the rest of the equipment.