How is laser cutting priced?

The quote depends on grade, thickness and material consumed. Net part mass alone does not describe consumption: sheet layouts leave margins and offcuts.

Two shapes with the same area may fit a sheet differently. Accurate estimates therefore need each part’s file and quantity, not just a total weight.

Every outer contour and opening adds cutting distance. A solid plate and a perforated plate with the same overall dimensions therefore require different work.

Geometric example: a square with 100 mm sides has a 400 mm perimeter. Ten 10 mm diameter holes add about 314 mm, giving 714 mm total cutting length. This does not predict exact time but explains part of the difference.

The laser generally starts a new cut for each separate contour. In the example, one outer contour becomes eleven contours in total. Holes add starting operations as well as perimeter length.

Many small cut-outs can cost more than one opening of similar area. Simplifying a design only makes sense if function and appearance remain suitable.

Material, thickness, gas and required quality affect machine settings. Corners and closely spaced details may also limit actual speed. Dividing total length by a theoretical speed gives only part of the required time.

File preparation and some setup costs are spread across the batch. Production runs can reduce unit cost without reducing the total by the same proportion.

Educational example only, not a Silazer rate: with 200 DH setup and 30 DH variable cost per part, 5 parts cost 350 DH, or 70 DH each; 20 cost 800 DH, or 40 DH each. Actual cost items and allocations depend on the quote.

Send DXFs, a dimensioned drawing for functional requirements and a parts-and-quantities list. If several batch sizes interest you, request them together to compare unit prices and total budgets.

Online estimates help with budgeting. Workshop confirmation of the file, material and operations establishes the quote for your actual requirements.