How we choose between laser and plasma cutting for thickness, finish and volume.
Laser and plasma cut steel by different methods, and each suits a different material thickness, edge finish and part volume.
Laser cutting suits thinner sheet, generally up to around 8–12 mm in mild steel. The kerf is narrow and the edge square, and it cuts small holes and sharp internal corners. Use laser where a part has fine detail or a visible edge, and on production runs where speed and consistency lower the unit cost.
Plasma handles heavier plate, from around 10 mm up, faster and more economically than laser. It tolerates surface scale. The edge is rougher and less square, which matters little on structural plate, base plates and hidden parts.
Laser-cut edges are usually ready to weld or paint straight away. Plasma edges are rougher and may need a light grind where a clean fit matters. Parts can be deburred or edge-broken on request.
Match the process to three factors: material thickness, whether the edge will be seen, and part quantity. On a visible 2 mm bracket, laser is usually worth the premium. On a 20 mm base plate, plasma usually costs less.