Flatbed Laser vs Tube Cutting?

Precision Sheet Metal Cutting vs Tubular Profile Processing – What’s Right for Your Project?

When it comes to laser cutting services in the UK, two major technologies stand out: Flatbed Laser Cutting and Tube Laser Cutting. At NemCon, we specialise in high-precision flatbed laser cutting – delivering fast, accurate, and cost-effective cutting solutions for sheet and plate metal. While we don’t currently offer tube laser cutting, understanding the differences between these two processes is key to choosing the right method for your fabrication project.

Both technologies use advanced CNC-controlled laser systems to cut metal with high accuracy. However, the materials they handle – and the types of components they produce – are quite different.

• Designed for sheet and plate metal (flat material)
   
• Ideal for 2D profiles, brackets, enclosures, panels and flat components
   
• Handles mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium and more
   
• Compatible with DXF, STEP and CAD drawings
   
• Offers precision cutting for materials up to 25mm thick
   

• Used for cutting round, square, rectangular and custom-profiled tubes
   
• Perfect for producing holes, mitres, notches and complex geometry in hollow sections
   
• Often used for structural frames, machine chassis and pipework
   
• Supports cutting tolerances as tight as ±0.2 mm
   
• Common in architectural, automotive, agricultural and industrial fabrication
   

At NemCon, we focus on flatbed laser cutting because it offers unbeatable versatility for a wide range of industries. Whether you need a single prototype or high-volume production, flatbed lasers offer fast, clean and repeatable results – all with reduced set-up and minimal finishing required.

• High-speed cutting for all sheet metal thicknesses
   
• Exceptional edge quality – minimal de-burring needed
   
• Cost-effective for both low and high production volumes
   
• Perfect for 2D parts such as brackets, gussets and base plates
   
• Supports precision fabrication for OEMs, M&E contractors, designers and engineers
   
• Flexible material compatibility – mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, galvanised steel
   
• Integrated with CAD/CAM systems for fast quoting and file processing

We go beyond laser cutting. NemCon offers a complete metal fabrication service to streamline your production:

• Welding, threading and countersinking
   
• Powder coating and finishing
   
• Flatbed laser cutting matched to folded or assembled components
   
• Kit packing, sub-assembly and nationwide delivery
   

If you're working with flat metal and need fast, precise parts – we’re your ideal fabrication partner. While tube cutting is better suited to hollow structures, flatbed laser cutting is unmatched for sheet metal components used across industries.

Looking for accurate, cost-efficient laser cutting for sheet metal parts? Send us your drawings or get in touch with our team to discuss your project. We offer quick turnaround times, UK-wide delivery, and expert fabrication support.

Contact Us to get started.