Laser Cutting The Technicalities of Cutting With A Laser: A UK Perspective In the heart of the UK’s bustling manufacturing and design sectors, this relatively new engineering technology stands out as a beacon of innovation and precision. This advanced technique, pivotal in shaping materials into intricate designs and components, has become indispensable across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, construction and fashion. This post delves into the technical nuances of cutting, its applications, and its significance within the UK’s dynamic manufacturing landscape. If you have an ..read more

Obtaining a laser cutting quotation from GF Laser is pretty straightforward, we’ve detailed the different methods below: Supplying a DXF: The majority of our enquiries are submitted with a DXF drawn up in AutoCAD or a similar CAD generation package. Supplying a 3D CAD model: Most of our 5 axis laser cutting enquiries are submitted with an accompanying 3D CAD file produced in a format such as .IGS or .STP file. However, we are also seeing a growing number of flatbed laser cutting enquiries submitted this way as the growth of free 3D CAD generation packages such as FREECAD grows. If you have an ..read more

Embracing Efficiency: The Role of PPAPs in Enhancing Quality Industry Standards In the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing and production, maintaining the highest standards of quality is not just a goal but a necessity. The Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) offers a structured approach to ensure components meet all industry and manufacturer standards before full-scale production begins. This methodology, deeply rooted in the automotive industry but applicable across various manufacturing sectors, plays a pivotal role in minimizing risks associated with product quality and safety. GF ..read more

Mastering the Art of Sheet Metal Folding Introduction In the world of manufacturing, sheet metal folding stands out as a cornerstone technique for producing precise, durable, and aesthetically appealing metal components. Essential to industries ranging from automotive to consumer electronics, sheet metal folding is a testament to the sophistication and advancement of modern manufacturing practices. This article delves into the fundamentals, processes, and challenges of sheet metal folding, offering insights aimed at industry professionals striving for excellence in their craft. The Basics of S ..read more

An interesting article on the BBC website today 13/03/2024 outlines a resurgence in companies looking to re-shore manufacturing from overseas to the UK. At GF Laser we have also seen a trend in companies looking to source laser cutting from overseas to the UK. What Started the Trend in Offshoring? In the early 90’s there was a rush for UK companies to utilise overseas manufacturers in growing economies such as China. The primary driver for sourcing from overseas or in many cases moving whole Production lines was cost. Emerging economies had cheap labour, relaxed safety laws and governments tha ..read more

Laser Cut Checker Plate, also known as diamond plate or tread plate, is a type of metal sheet with a regular pattern of raised diamonds or lines on one side, with the reverse side being featureless. It’s known for its anti-slip texture, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice in various applications ranging from industrial settings to decorative projects. In recent years, the advancement of laser cutting technology has significantly enhanced the precision, efficiency, and possibilities of working with checker plate, opening up new avenues for its application and customisat ..read more

Online Laser Cutting – Why we no longer provide an online quoting system. The sales team at GF Laser have experimented with online laser cutting quotation software a number of times. We paused our use of a well known system during Covid as the material volatility meant that we were no longer able to rely on steel stockholder prices for more than a few hours. Although material prices are relatively stable now they were also very unpredictable during the start of the Ukraine war especially for galvanised mild steel. Whilst getting an online laser cutting quote may be more convenient and can be c ..read more

Galvanised Steel Suppliers Galvanised steel used every day in modern construction, manufacturing, and various industrial applications. Its remarkable durability and resistance to corrosion make it a preferred choice for projects demanding longevity and reliability. In this light, selecting the right galvanised steel partner is crucial for ensuring the quality and effectiveness of your materials. Why Choose Galvanised Steel? Galvanised steel undergoes a zinc coating process, which significantly enhances its resistance to rust and corrosion. This protective layer ensures that steel structures ca ..read more

Will my laser cut parts warp? Although the vast majority of parts we laser cut don’t suffer from warping, when a component is long and thin or has a large amount of material removed then warping or distortion can occur. If the part has a flatness tolerance specified and the part is warped but still within tolerance then laser cutting can continue. However, if the part is out of tolerance or if a tolerance isn’t specified we will liaise with the customer before we carry on laser cutting. What causes laser cut parts to warp? Steel is rolled into coils during the manufacturing process and then tr ..read more

The Precision and Efficiency of Lasered Components in Modern Manufacturing In the world of modern manufacturing, precision and efficiency are paramount. This is where lasered components come into play, revolutionizing industries with their unparalleled accuracy and speed. Laser technology, with its ability to cut, etch, and shape materials with supreme precision, has become a cornerstone in the production of components across various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, and medical devices Contact the sales team at GF Laser today to get a fast, competitive quotation. Unmatche ..read more