Laser Cutting Speeds Quick Reference
Build quote-ready feed inputs from machine cut charts, controller logs, and timed sample cuts.
Reference data governance
Last reviewed: 2026-04-27. Public feed tables were removed from this reference on 2026-05-22. Production quotes should use shop-validated feeds from machine documentation, controller logs, or timed sample cuts.
Review methodology and assumptionsSpeed Inputs to Capture
| Input | Source to Record | Quote Use |
|---|---|---|
| Machine cut chart feed | OEM or machine-builder material library | Primary feed value for the laser cutting speed calculator. |
| Controller program feed | NC program, controller export, or CAM post output | Confirms what production will actually run. |
| Test coupon result | Timed sample cut with edge-quality inspection | Validates whether the feed can be reused for quoting. |
| Quality requirement | Drawing note, customer finish requirement, or shop route | Explains why a slower or cleaner feed may be required. |
| Gas and pierce setup | Assist gas record, pierce routine, and cut-chart revision | Keeps cycle-time, gas, and edge-quality assumptions aligned. |
Units and Conversion Checklist
Keep every feed in a consistent unit system before moving it into CAM, cycle-time estimates, or quotes.
Speed conversion
IPM = m/min x 39.37
Store the original source unit with the converted value so programming and quoting do not drift.
What to pair with feed
- Material grade, thickness, finish requirement, and supplier lot.
- Assist gas, nozzle, focus, pierce routine, and cut-chart revision.
- Inspection result that approves the feed for repeat quotes.
Need nozzle, focus, or pierce setup guidance? Review the processing parameters reference for the rest of the setup record.
How to Use Cutting Speed in a Quote
Move from validated feed to cycle time and cost.
- 1. Capture the approved feed. Use the current cut chart or controller program for the exact material, thickness, gas, nozzle, focus, and quality requirement.
- 2. Verify with a sample. Cut a representative coupon or first article, then record edge quality, dross, discoloration, and measured cycle time.
- 3. Convert into quote time. Enter the approved feed, active cut length, pierce count, and setup assumptions into the connected calculators.
- 4. Review before reuse. Retest when material lot, optics condition, nozzle, gas supply, customer finish, or machine maintenance status changes.
Important Notes
Machine documentation is the starting record
Use the cut chart supplied with your machine or application support package as the first source, then log any shop-specific revision after sample cuts and inspection.
Quality changes the approved feed
Weld-ready, painted, cosmetic, or tight-fit parts may need a different feed than utility brackets. Store the quality requirement with the feed so estimators know why it was chosen.
Retest after setup changes
Optics maintenance, nozzle condition, gas supply, material lot, pierce routine, and operator route can all change the usable feed. Treat speed as a validated input, not a permanent public constant.