Advanced Techniques

advanced laser cutting techniques
advanced laser cutting techniques

Advanced Laser Cutting Techniques: Innovation with Precision
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Bespoke Manufacturing

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Bespoke Manufacturing

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Instant Quote Service

Worldwide Delivery

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Various Gauges/Thicknesses

At Stephens Gaskets, precision isn’t just a target – it’s our standard. With over 70 years of experience in engineering excellence, we continually invest in advanced laser cutting techniques to meet the evolving needs of modern industry.
Whether you’re an OEM in aerospace, a prototyping lab in electronics, or a manufacturer in automotive, our laser cutting capabilities are engineered for accuracy, repeatability, and speed.
This page explores the cutting-edge technology behind our fibre and CO₂ systems, our micro-cutting and etching capabilities, and how we use CAD integration to streamline production with unmatched precision.

Why Choose Stephens Gaskets for Advanced Laser Cutting?

As a UK-based leader in custom laser services, Stephens Gaskets combines legacy craftsmanship with forward-looking innovation. Our laser systems deliver clean, burr-free cuts, minimal heat-affected zones, and consistent results across metals, plastics, and composites.

We Offer:

  • Fibre and CO₂ laser platforms.
  • Micro-cutting and engraving for intricate parts.
  • Seamless CAD/CAM integration.
  • Prototyping and production-scale volumes.
  • ISO 9001-certified quality and traceability.
  • Fast lead times and responsive service.

From first concept to finished part, we help you achieve better outcomes with less waste and faster turnaround.

Fibre vs CO₂: Choosing the Right Laser for Your Application

Both fibre and CO₂ lasers offer unique advantages. At Stephens Gaskets, we guide clients through the differences to select the right tool for the job.

1. Fibre Laser Cutting

  • Ideal for reflective metals like brass, copper, stainless steel, and aluminium.
  • Faster cutting speeds on thin materials.
  • Lower maintenance and energy consumption.
  • Higher beam intensity for fine detailing.

2. CO₂ Laser Cutting

  • Effective on non-metals such as plastics, wood, rubber, and composites.
  • Smoother finish on thicker organic materials.
  • Versatile for engraving and marking.
  • Suitable for insulation materials, cork, gaskets.
Our workshop is equipped with both technologies, enabling flexibility across industries from electronics to marine, and from automotive to aerospace.

Laser Micro-Cutting and Etching: Small Details, Big Performance

For projects that demand fine tolerance and detailed features, our micro-cutting and etching capabilities offer unbeatable precision.

Typical Tolerances:

  • As tight as ±0.05mm.
  • Fine cut width (kerf) down to 0.1mm.
  • Smooth edges that require little to no post-processing.

Micro-Cutting Use Cases:

  • Medical device components.
  • Microfluidic systems.
  • Aerospace instrumentation.
  • High-performance electronics.
  • Small gaskets and washers with intricate profiles.
Etching is also available for part identification, batch numbers, or branding – without affecting part performance.

Optimising the Cutting Path: Engineering for Efficiency

Laser cutting isn’t just about speed – it’s about efficiency. At Stephens Gaskets, we use nesting software and advanced path planning to reduce cut time, improve throughput, and lower costs.

What Cutting Path Optimisation Offers:

  • Reduced thermal stress and distortion.
  • Minimised material scrap.
  • Better machine utilisation.
  • Consistent edge quality on all parts.

Our team adjusts feed rate, laser power, focus depth, and tool path depending on the material and part geometry, ensuring that every component meets tolerance and finish specifications.

Materials We Laser Cut with Precision

We offer laser cutting services for a wide variety of materials used across B2B sectors.

Metals:

  • Stainless steel
  • Mild steel
  • Aluminium
  • Brass
  • Copper

Non-Metals:

  • Acetal, nylon, PTFE.
  • Fibre and Tufnol.
  • Cork and rubber.
  • Composites and laminates.
  • Gasket sheet materials (e.g., Novus, mica).
If your application requires high conductivity, non-magnetic properties, or thermal resistance, we can recommend the best material to suit.

Industry Applications for Advanced Laser Cutting

Advanced laser cutting techniques support critical functions in nearly every technical sector:

1. Aerospace & Defence
  • Lightweight components.
  • Heat-resistant gaskets.
  • Tight tolerance assemblies.
2. Automotive
  • Custom shims and washers.
  • Bracketry and prototypes.
  • Emission system parts.
3. Electronics
  • Insulators.
  • Contact plates.
  • PCB spacers.
4. Medical
  • Custom-cut PTFE and PEEK.
  • Etched device labels.
  • Single-use sterile components.
5. Industrial
  • Control panel covers.
  • Sealing solutions.
  • Structural brackets.
We support everything from prototypes to production volumes, with short lead times and consistent quality.

Why Engineers Choose Stephens Gaskets for Advanced Laser Work

Choosing the right partner matters. At Stephens Gaskets, our difference is not just in the machines we use – it’s in how we apply them.

With every order, you benefit from

  • 70+ years of UK manufacturing expertise.
  • In-house fibre and CO₂ laser systems.
  • ISO 9001:2015 certified quality.
  • Full traceability and documentation.
  • Responsive service and technical guidance.
Whether you’re ordering a single prototype or high-volume parts, our team delivers with confidence.

FAQs about Laser Cutting Techniques

What is the difference between micro-cutting and standard laser cutting?
Micro-cutting uses refined beam control and reduced power to achieve tighter tolerances and finer detail. It’s ideal for small or intricate parts.
Can you laser cut reflective metals like copper?
Yes. Our fibre laser systems are optimised for cutting reflective metals like copper and brass without material burn or bounce-back.
Do you offer design support?
We do. Our engineers can advise on manufacturability, material choice, and part optimisation – especially for clients needing precision in fit and function.
What's the turnaround time for custom laser cut parts?
Standard turnaround is 3-5 working days. Urgent jobs or prototypes may be completed sooner depending on material availability and complexity.

Partner with a Proven UK Laser Cutting Expert

From CAD to cut, from concept to component – Stephens Gaskets is your trusted source for advanced laser cutting techniques. Our in-house capabilities, technical depth, and focus on precision allow us to deliver parts that others can’t.

We don’t just cut materials – we solve engineering problems.

Contact Stephens Gaskets Today

Looking to optimise your next project with advanced laser cutting services?

Get in touch today and let’s cut to perfection.

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