You might consider sending a few typical jobs out to some contract houses. Same part to both laser & plasma shop.

They have had time to optimise their process; this should give you a rough cost (amortised), plus an indication of the quality of finished piece-part.

GA

That's exactly what I'd suggest doing just after I gathered all the data I could and listen to all the sales pitch's from the selected vendors.

(learn faster and cheaper from observing someones elses "trial and error")

Neither! Let me WaterJet the material! My waterjet costs are below anyones!

Waterjetting produces no heat affected zone....no discoloration and lasers are restricted by thickness and cannot cut reflected materials.

I'm in the Waterjet business and own an OMAX waterjet machine!

Dave

How about AWJ maintainence costs?

We've contracted out a bunch of work, & were perpetually waiting for their machine to be repaired. It impacted our delivery schedule on several occasions.

Hello Sidevalvequru!

The costs associated w/ AWJ are a function of two primary things...

1. The time

2. Composition of Materail

Regarding 'time' there are 3 sub categories to that ;

Namely, (a) the thickness of the material , (b) the 'configuration or (Geometry) and finally the (3) 'Finish" that you would request.

Generally most shops charge (and this is generally speaking.....anywhere from $100/hr to $200/hr.

Cost of material (if I buy it, is additional to that hourly rate!)

I'm in New Orleans, La.

Consider using my services!

thanks,

David

I would agree with the water jet option. Hi-Def plasma would work but the smoke is tough to deal with and the heat affected zone might require further finishing.