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Technical guide

Fiber laser vs. plasma cutting: when to use each

A practical guide to choosing a cutting process by thickness, precision and edge quality.

The difference in one sentence

A fiber laser concentrates energy in a very fine beam: it cuts thin and medium sheet with high precision and a clean edge. Plasma uses an electric arc and gas: it is faster and cheaper on thick plate, with a wider cut and a rougher edge.

When to choose fiber laser

  • Parts with small holes, detailed contours or tight tolerances.
  • Thin and medium sheet, where speed and a clean edge reduce rework.
  • Parts that are later bent, welded or painted and need good fit-up.

When to consider plasma

  • Very thick plate where cost per part matters more than edge finish.
  • Structural parts without strict tolerance requirements.

What SPINSA does

We cut with TRUMPF fiber laser technology: carbon steel from 1 to 16 mm, stainless steel and aluminium from 1 to 10 mm and brass from 1 to 8 mm. To check if your part fits, use the capability checker or send the drawing.

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Next step

Tell us what you need. We send you a quote.

Reply within 1 business day · quote in 48 h. No drawing? Describe the project and we will review it. We can sign a confidentiality agreement (NDA) first.

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