How to Choose the Right Thickness for Your Laser Cut Metal
🛠️ Introduction
One of the most common questions we get is:
“What thickness should I use for this part?”
Whether you're cutting brackets, signage, panels or structural components, choosing the right thickness is crucial for performance, cost, and cut quality.
Here’s a simple guide from Metalmorphic Laser to help you make the best choice for your project.
🔩 Common Metal Thicknesses We Cut
At Metalmorphic Laser, we routinely cut the following thicknesses:
Material - Min to Max Thickness
Mild Steel - 1mm to 35mm
Stainless Steel - 1mm to 18mm
Aluminium - 1mm to 16mm
📏 How to Choose the Right Thickness
1. What’s the part used for?
Lightweight signs or covers → 1.5mm – 2mm
Mounting plates or panels → 3mm – 5mm
Load-bearing brackets or supports → 6mm – 10mm+
Structural base plates → 10mm – 16mm+
If the part will carry weight, get bolted to something, or be under tension—go thicker.
2. What material are you using?
Mild steel is strong and affordable—you can often go thinner
Aluminium is lighter but less rigid—you may need extra thickness
Stainless is corrosion-resistant and visually clean—often used for finishing touches or exposed parts
3. Is this for aesthetics or function?
If you just need a decorative screen, 2–3mm aluminium or stainless works well
If the part needs strength, especially in brackets or chassis work, don’t skimp on thickness
4. Are you folding the part later?
For folded parts, the bend radius and material type affect how thick you can go.
We’ll help you adjust the file or choose the right thickness that won’t crack or distort.
5. Need to keep weight down?
Especially in automotive, cabinetry, or signage—thinner = lighter.
Let us know if weight is a factor, and we’ll help find the sweet spot between strength and weight.
💡 Pro Tip: Ask Us First
Still unsure? Just tell us:
What it’s for
How big it is
If it’s structural, aesthetic, or both
What finish you’re after (painted, raw, folded, etc.)
We’ll recommend the best material and thickness for performance and price.
📞 Ready to Cut with Confidence?
Whether you’ve got an idea, a sketch, or just a question—we’re here to help.
Contact Metalmorphic Laser today to get advice on materials, thickness, and cutting for your next project.