Choosing a cutting process | Hypertherm

Every cutting process has particular benefits and shortcomings that you should take into account before deciding on a cutting method. Also keep in mind that a combination of processes may be best for a particular application.

	Plasma	Oxyfuel	Laser	Waterjet	Other mechanical tools
	Best for cutting metal between 6 and 50 mm (1/4″ to 2″)	Best for cutting thick carbon steel	Best for thin materials or parts requiring very tight tolerances	Best if cutting more than just metal, require precise cut qality, and cannot have a heat affected zone
Common attributes
Industrial cutting category	Thermal	Thermal Compare to plasma	Thermal Compare to plasma	Erosive	Mechanical
Types of materials	Most metals	Carbon steel	Range of materials	Nearly anything	Metal, wood, plastic
Material thickness	Up to 50 mm (2″)	50 mm (2″) and above	Typically 6 mm (1/4”) and below	Up to 75 mm (3″)	Typically up to 25 mm (1″)
Cut quality	Very good	Very good	Excellent	Exceptional	Good
Speed when cutting ideal thickness	Fast	Fast (though requires pre-heat time)	Fast	Slow	Slow
Operating costs	$ - $$	$$	$$ (Higher for CO₂ lasers)	$$$	$$$$
Capital equipment cost	$ - $$$	$	$$$$	$$$	$ - $$$$
Portability	(air plasma only)		-	-
Heat affected zone				-	Maybe
	Learn about plasma	Learn about oxyfuel	Learn about laser	Learn about waterjet