Sheet Cutting
Sheet cutting prepares flat blanks from sheet metal by shearing, laser cutting or punching before forming, bending or fabrication. Accurate blanks with square edges are the foundation of good sheet metal parts.
What it is
Straight blanks are cut quickly on hydraulic shearing machines, while shaped blanks with holes are laser cut or punched. The flat blank size is calculated from the finished part, including bend allowances.
Cut blanks are then bent on press brakes, rolled, pressed or welded into the final part.
Typical applications
- Blanks for bending and press forming
- Panels and covers
- Strips and flat bars from sheet
- Enclosure and cabinet parts
- Stock preparation for fabrication
Suitable materials
- CRCA and HR mild steel sheet
- Galvanised steel (GI/GP)
- Stainless steel sheet
- Aluminium sheet
Points to consider
- Shearing is cheapest for rectangles; laser or punching for holes and shapes.
- State the grain/rolling direction if bending cracks are a risk.
- Flat blank sizes must include bend allowances; share the finished drawing.
- Keep protective film on stainless and aluminium where finish matters.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between shearing and laser cutting?
Shearing makes straight cuts quickly and cheaply. Laser cutting makes any shape, including holes, directly from a CAD file.
Do you calculate flat blank sizes?
Yes. From the finished part drawing, we calculate flat sizes including bend allowances for the material and thickness.
Which sheet materials can be cut?
Mild steel, galvanised steel, stainless steel and aluminium are the most common.