Laser cutting vs waterjet: which one does your part need?

Both processes cut your part out of flat metal, following your drawing. Both are accurate. So why do both exist? Because each one wins in different situations, and choosing the right one can save you money and give you a better part.

How laser cutting works

A focused beam of light melts a very narrow line through the metal while a jet of gas blows the melted metal away. It is extremely fast on thin and medium sheet, and it handles tiny holes, sharp corners and fine text with ease.

How waterjet cutting works

Water at very high pressure, mixed with fine garnet sand, erodes its way through the material. There is no heat at all, so the edges stay soft and the part does not warp. It can cut very thick plate and almost any material, including stone, rubber and glass.

Choose laser when

• Your part is thin to medium sheet metal.
• It has fine detail: small holes, slots or lettering.
• You want the lowest price and fastest turnaround.

Choose waterjet when

• Your plate is thick, past about [X]".
• The part will be tapped, drilled or machined afterwards, so you want soft edges.
• The material can't take heat, or it isn't metal at all.

Head to head

What about cost?

On thin sheet, laser almost always wins because it cuts several times faster. As material gets thicker the laser slows down, and eventually waterjet becomes the better value. For more on what drives price, read how much laser cutting costs in Canada.

Still not sure?

You do not have to decide alone. Upload your file and pick your material. Where both processes can make the part, we will suggest the one that gives you the best part for the lowest price.