Profile Cutting
Profile cutting cuts flat parts to a required 2D outline from sheet or plate using laser, plasma, oxy-fuel or waterjet, chosen by material and thickness. It supplies blanks, flanges, gussets and base plates ready for machining, bending or welding.
What it is
The part outline is programmed from a drawing or DXF and cut from stock plate. Thin sheet is usually laser cut; thick mild steel plate is often oxy-fuel or plasma cut; heat-sensitive or mixed materials go to waterjet.
Profile-cut blanks save material and machining time compared with sawing and machining from solid, especially for large rings, flanges and irregular shapes.
Typical applications
- Flange and ring blanks
- Base plates and gussets
- Structural brackets and lugs
- Machine frames and components
- Blanks for machining
Suitable materials
- Mild steel plate (IS 2062)
- Alloy and wear-resistant plate (e.g. Hardox-type)
- Stainless steel
- Aluminium
Points to consider
- Choose the method by thickness and tolerance; oxy-fuel is cheapest for thick mild steel but least precise.
- Leave machining allowance on flame-cut edges that need accuracy.
- Heat-affected edges on thermal cuts may need removal before welding critical joints.
- Nesting several parts together reduces material cost.
Frequently asked questions
Which profile cutting method is best?
Laser for thin to medium sheet and accuracy, plasma for medium to thick plate, oxy-fuel for very thick mild steel, and waterjet where heat must be avoided.
Can profile-cut parts be machined afterwards?
Yes. Blanks are often cut with allowance and then machined on critical faces and holes.
What thickness can be profile cut?
From thin sheet up to 100 mm or more for mild steel using oxy-fuel cutting.