Frequently Asked Questions
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions for your convenience; however, if you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us!
General Queries
How much does laser cutting cost?
Every job has its unique characteristics, and the price will vary based on factors like material, thickness, quantity, and design. For straightforward items like custom washers, spacers, or pipe flanges where you need just one or two, our online ordering system is likely to provide you with the best price available. However, if you're in search of something more specialised or need larger quantities, we always suggest reaching out to our sales team for a direct quote. for a direct free no obligation quote.
Can LaserMaster offer engraving?
No, our laser cutters can only cut all the way through, so we do not offer engraving. However our lasers are able to etch part numbers on components for identification purposes.
I am not in the UK can I use the online order system?
Unfortunately, we are unable to ship outside of the UK.
Will my laser cut items arrive polished and finished?
Unfortunately, parts will generally need further finishing by the end user, laser cutting creates the 'blank' item(s). During the cutting process laser cut parts need to be 'tagged' into the sheet to avoid movement whilst cutting and also to avoid losing the part in the machine, this will leave behind a small 'pip' that we do not remove automatically.
Can I supply my own material?
Absolutely, we’re glad to offer free issue material laser cutting, as long as it’s compatible with our laser. Please note that there is a handling fee for this service. We’ll need to inform you about the required sheet size for the parts to be cut. Additionally, we want to make it clear that we cannot take responsibility or replace the material if the cutting process fails on any component.
Can you laser cut acrylic, wood, MDF and plastics?
No we are only set up to cut sheet metals including brass, copper, bronze, aluminium, stainless and mild steel, zintec, galvanised, Corten.
Do you hold sheet materials in stock?
Yes we generally keep the most commonly used materials in stock and receive next day deliveries from our suppliers.
Online Order System
The laser cut profile I am looking for is not an option on the online order system?
If you're having trouble locating what you need, feel free to send us an email, and we'll gladly provide you with a quote.
I’m looking for something longer and wider than 1 metre. Is this the largest size you can laser cut?
The largest size you can order through our online system is 1 m x 1 m, primarily because of shipping limitations. However, we can accommodate cuts up to 1480 mm x 2990 mm since our laser beds measure 3 m x 1.5 m. So simply pop us an email to sales@lasermaster.co.uk if you can't find what your looking for.
I accidentally ordered the wrong item or I've changed my mind. What's the process for cancelling my order?
Because your order is custom-made, the time frame for cancellations is quite narrow to be able to maintain our short lead times. If you realise you've ordered the wrong item, just send us an email right away, and we can often make adjustments if it's a minor mistake, or we can process a cancellation and refund.
However, if your order has already been laser cut, we won't be able to cancel it.Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. If you send us an email over the weekend, there's no need to worry if you don't get an immediate response. We'll make sure to address your inquiry first thing on the next business day.
Will my item arrived polished?
We do not provide metal polishing services. It is advisable to review our section on 'What to Expect from Laser Cutting' prior to placing your order to ensure that our offerings align with your specific application needs
Are the thicknesses listed online the only options available?
The choices available on the online platform are the only ones you can order using this method. However, you can browse the complete range here. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email, and we’ll do our best to help.
I live outside of the UK can I order online?
Unfortunately, we do not provide shipping to locations outside the UK.
Is it possible to request counter sinking and or tapping for an item I bought through the online ordering platform?
The online ordering platform is tailored for the shapes shown and exclusively provides laser cutting services. However, if you reach out to us via email, we’d be delighted to provide you with a quote that covers tapping and counter sinking for small orders and individual projects.
Could LaserMaster provide a more competitive price for a larger order?
The online ordering platform is designed for low-volume and individual items. If you need a quote for larger quantities or bulk laser cutting, we recommend contacting us by emailing sales@lasermaster.co.uk or filling out the contact form.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders generally take 5 to 7 working days to process then
allow around 2 days for shipping.I'm having trouble entering the dimensions for the items I want to order. Can you help me with that?
Of course! But first it’s possible that the settings in the system are preventing you from placing an order for something that might not be suitable for laser cutting.
Take a look at our online order guidelines to see if that’s the issue. If you’re still having difficulties, feel free to send an email to sales@lasermaster.co.uk.
Can I add a fold to an item purchased via the online order platform?
The online ordering platform is designed specifically for the shapes displayed and offers laser cutting services only. Simply send us an email, and we’ll be happy to give you a quote that includes folding for small orders and custom projects.
I’m interested in having some letters cut from a rectangle to create a stencil. Can I place an order for this online?
Unfortunately, the online ordering platform is exclusively for the profiles displayed. However, if you send us the details, we’ll be happy to provide you with a quote.
Laser and Plasma Cutting
What are the cutting tolerances on the laser?
The tolerance for laser cutting will differ depending on the materials and their respective thicknesses, and this information can be accessed here.
What is the maximum size we can laser cut?
The maximum dimensions for laser cutting that we can accommodate are approximately 2980 x 1480mm, subject to the type of material and the thickness of the sheet required.
Can LaserMaster guarantee my laser cut parts will be scratch and blemish free?
Laser-cut products frequently display minor imperfections, such as blemishes, scuffs, or scratches, particularly on the reverse side of the profile. These imperfections generally result from two primary factors associated with the laser cutting bed. The bed is constructed with parallel rows of pointed copper slats, which are positioned 50 mm apart. When the laser beam contacts a slat, it may produce splatter (referred to as flashback) that can settle on the back surface of the profile. Furthermore, marks may arise during the processes of loading and unloading the sheet. Although we strive to minimise such damage, we cannot guarantee that the parts will be entirely free of blemishes.
Will my laser and plasma cut components be perfectly flat?
Laser-cut and plasma-cut parts can warp or bend during the cutting process, and this is a normal occurrence. Several factors contribute to this, such as inconsistent heating and cooling, which can release the stress in the material. This stress can lead to uneven expansion and contraction, causing distortion, warping, bowing, or difficulties in maintaining a flat shape. The more intense the design the more likely it is to warp!
Do our lasers cut partially through the sheet or all the way through?
Our lasers are designed to cut all the way through. However, if you require milling, counter-sinking, or counter-boring, our well-equipped in-house CNC machining department is here to help. Find out more
Quoting and Ordering
How can I obtain a quotation?
Simply email sales@lasermaster.co.uk or use the contact us facility on the website. Remember to include the material, thickness and quantity required, please include a drawing/sketch, also an indication of the size the part should be is really helpful. Put simply, we really need something to quote from.
What are the best files to send to obtain a quotation?
1:1 in mm DWG and or DXF are perfect and allow us to quote quicker, these files can be imported directly into our quoting software. For simple items we can work from pencil sketches, PDF, Jpegs providing all the relevant dimensions are noted on the drawing to enable us to draw the item in CAD software. For more complicated and unique designs, we can sometimes convert PDF and jpegs. jpegs need to be high resolution and only be drawn with a hairline and contain no fill. Some software like sketch up and adobe illustrator do allow you to export as either DXF or DWG.
Can you give me a ball park price over the phone?
No sadly not, laser cutting costs are based on many factors and are not priced solely on material size. We will need all the information in an email to be able to price accurately.
Do you have a minimum order charge or quantity?
We don't have any minimum order quantity or minimum order fee. Laser cutting prices are determined by various factors, quantity, cutting time, labour and not just material usage. Typically, prices will begin at approximately £25.00 plus VAT. Or check out our online ordering system for simply shaped laser cut profiles, this way you share costs with other orders placed.
Does LaserMaster only offer laser cutting?
We provide a wide range of services beyond just laser cutting, such as plasma cutting, folding, bending, welding, CNC machining, full assembly fabrication, tapping, countersinking, rumbling, linishing, and powder coating are all part of our in-house sheet metal fabrication service.
How can I pay if I want to proceed with a quotation?
You can make payments using debit/credit cards by calling 01209 821 902 or through Bacs (bank transfer) please request a proforma invoice.
My quote seems expensive for just a small piece of metal. How can I reduce the cost?
If your looking for a small quantity? Check out the online easy order to see if it meets your needs! Here you'll share a bulk of the costs with other orders placed online.
Alternatively to lower unit costs, consider increasing the quantity needed. Laser cutting depends on various factors, such as sheet loading time, which remains constant whether cutting 1 or 1000 pieces.
Can I order a sample?
Sure, when placing a large order for laser cutting we can offer a sample created from your artwork for you to review. There is a fee for this service due to the setup and laser time required.
The cost typically begins at £25.00 excluding VAT, varying based on the sample size, and includes delivery if needed. If you decide to move forward with the bulk order, a portion of this payment will be credited towards the total quantity ordered.
What are the best files to send for a quote for folding, counter sinking, and tapping?
Ideally, we would require the 2D DWG or DXF file for laser cutting the part, followed by a PDF illustrating the dimensions needed for the folding and any other process required.
How long will my order take to process?
Our typical processing time for laser cutting orders is 5-7 working days from payment. Please remember that this timeframe may change based on our current stock and capacity at the point of order. Additional post laser cutting processes such as folding, countersinking, or tapping, could take an additional 1-4 days depending on quantities. The estimated lead time will be provided when you receive a quote.
Feel free to talk to us about your lead times, and we will always do our best to accommodate. The exact lead time will depend on factors such as quantity and material stock availability.
For urgent orders, we also provide a fast track express laser cutting service.
My order is urgent how can you help?
Our Fast Track laser cutting service starts at just £25.00 plus VAT, provided we have the sheet available and the capacity to fulfill your order. If you complete your payment by 1pm (Monday to Friday), we’ll cut and dispatch your order the very next day with a next-day courier service. However, please keep in mind that we can't guarantee next-day delivery due to possible courier delays. The Fast Track fee is solely for the quick cutting of your item(s) and does not include shipping charges.
Sheet Metal Folding
What is the longest length we can fold?
Depending on the thickness of the material we are able to fold up to 3 metres long.
What sheet metals can we fold?
Our folding services cover a range of materials including mild steel, coated steels, Cor-ten weathering steel, 1050, 5251, and 5083 aluminium, stainless steel, copper, and brass, with the ability to accommodate varying levels of complexity and material thickness.
Is it possible to fold checker plate, tread plate and durbar?
Certainly, we fold aluminium, stainless steel, and mild steel tread plate on a regular basis for items such as stair treads, landings, and platforms.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders generally take 5 to 7 working days to process then
allow around 2 days for shipping.I only want one item folded is this OK?
At LaserMaster, we are more than happy to provide a quote for a one-off item, for laser cutting and folding.
Materials
What materials can you laser cut?
We offer laser cutting services for a variety of sheet metals such as mild steel, galvanised, Zintec, stainless steel, aluminium, brass, copper, bronze, durbar, checker plate, and Cor-Ten weathering steel. Additionally, we can also laser cut free issue material as long as it meets our requirements.
Do you only laser and plasma cut sheet metal?
We are not able to laser cut the following: organic materials for example, wood, leather, cardboard. Plastics or ceramics. and due to the reflective properties, we are not able to laser cut silver or silver-plated sheet.
Do you cut free issue material?
Yes we can, as long as it's suitable we are happy to price for cutting only. Smallest sheet size 300mm x 300mm - Largest sheet size 3000mm x 1500mm (Max cutting area 2980 mm x 1480mm).
What is the thinnest brass you can laser cut?
We are able to laser cut brass down to 0.55 mm thick.
How can I obtain a quotation for laser cutting free issue material?
All we need is for you to send us either DXF or DWG 2D file formats, and to specify the material and thickness you'll be providing, and if its suitable for our lasers we can price to laser cut only.
Can I free issue MDF and wood for you to laser cut?
No, we can only cut sheet metals on our laser cutters.
Why do you cut 0.5 mm stainless steel and brass but not 0.5 mm aluminium?
This is due to the weight, laser cutting use’s gas when cutting and when a sheet is light it can move during the cutting process so 1 mm is the thinnest we are able to successfully cut.
Will stainless steel rust or tarnish?
Stainless steel doesn't rust like regular steel does, with a red oxide layer that flakes off. Corrosion usually occurs when contaminants settle on the surface of the stainless steel. So stainless steel can look rusty/tarnished if not properly maintained. It is ‘stain-less’ not ‘stain-free’. Over time and if not maintained correctly, 'rust' will develop on stainless steel.
What is the thickest aluminium you can laser cut?
We are able to laser cut up to 30 mm aluminium.
What is the thinnest copper we keep in stock for laser cutting?
The thinnest copper we keep in stock is normally 0.7 mm.
Will my Cor-ten arrive pre weathered?
No, weathering steel is originally black/silvery in colour, and looks just like standard steel, and the patina develops over time when exposed to weather.
Will mild steel rust if not protected?
Mild steel is highly susceptible to corrosion and will quickly oxidise when exposed to water, oxygen, and ions?
Mild steel does not have a chromium oxide protective layer and so the iron present reacts with the moisture in the air to produce iron oxide or 'rust'.
Mild steel needs additional treatment like galvanizing to create a protective surface.
I am not sure what material and thickness I need for my project can LaserMaster advise?
Regrettably, we can't provide specific recommendations on the best material and thickness for your application, so the final choice will be yours. However, you can find general information about most of the available materials here.
CNC Machining
How can I obtain a quotation for CNC machining?
For quotes for cnc machining email machineshop@lasermaster.co.uk
What are the best files to send to obtain a quotation for cnc machining?
We can work from PDF or Step files.
Can you tweak a part that I currently have?
To determine if it's feasible, we would need to take a look at it; it's definitely worth reaching out to us.
What are your lead times for CNC machining?
This will be determined by the complexity of the parts, the quantity required, and our workload at the time of your order.
Can you make obsolete components?
We are able to fabricate brand new components that perfectly match the original, using existing components or technical specifications.
Would it be possible for me to drop by and talk about my machining needs?
Sure! Feel free to stop by and chat about your machining needs. Just give us a quick call beforehand to ensure someone will be here to assist you.
Shipping and Delivery
Are international shipping options available for online orders?
Unfortunately, we currently do not offer shipping services outside of the UK.
Can I collect my order?
Absolutely! You have the option to collect your order directly from our Redruth factory. We also provide the flexibility for you to arrange your own courier or pallet collection if that suits you better.
Do we deliver locally within Cornwall?
Yes, we can offer a local delivery options.
What do you charge for delivery?
Our online orders include P+P . If you opt for a quote instead, P+P starts from £8.95 plus VAT.
Standard pallet charges typically begin at around £65.00 plus VAT. Shipping charges are determined by the size, weight, and destination of the order.
What shipping methods do you use?
For shipping, we utilise next day services provided by DHL and Pallet Track. If you have any specific shipping requirements or preferences, feel free to let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
What if we are closed or I am not home when delivery is attempted?
For missed courier deliveries the driver will leave a calling card.
The card and notification will direct you to dhlparcel.co.uk where using the track a parcel function will give you the options available
This will include one or more of the following options:
- Leave in a safe place
- Leave with a neighbour
- Collect from a DHL eCommerce UK ServicePoint
- Collect from the DHL eCommerce Depot
- Change delivery day
Is next day delivery guaranteed?
No, we ship using a next day courier service but it is not a guaranteed next day service. Deliveries to the Highlands, British Isles, Islands (Scottish Isles, Isle of Man), parts of Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland can take 1-3 working days.
What if my order arrives damaged or is incorrect?
If you receive damaged goods or if the items delivered do not match your order or invoice, please let us know right away. If we have made a mistake, we will make sure to correct it promptly.
Would it be possible to have my order placed in a safe place when it’s delivered?
If you request it, items can be left in a designated ‘safe place,’ but please note that you will be fully responsible if the items are lost after they have been delivered.
My delivery address is outside of mainland UK; am I still able to place an order with you?
The quoted delivery fees apply solely to the UK mainland. If you're in any of the regions listed below, we kindly ask you to contact us before buying so we can provide you with a shipping estimate: Isle of Wight (PO31-PO41), Isles of Scilly (TR21-TR25), Northern Ireland (BT1-BT94), Eire, Isle of Man (IM1-IM9), Channel Islands (GY1-GY9), Jersey (JE1-JE4), Alderney, Sark, Herm, and the Scottish Highlands & Offshore Scottish Islands. In some cases we are able to send goods to the above destinations using a 5-7 working day courier service to the above destinations at no extra cost.
Didn't find the answer to your question?
soon as we see the request