Instant online quotes for laser-cut parts

The company offers both CO2 flat bed laser cutting and solid-state laser cutting of flat sheet and tube. Materials processed by the company typically range from 0.025 shim steel up to 25 mm steel. Laserquote is claimed to be the first in the UK, and one of only a very few worldwide. "We've taken a leaf out of Easyjet's book," explained director David Gattward. "No longer do our customers have to wait for a quotation, they get it immediately. And if they want to know how the price will be effected by doubling the quantity, the answer is only a few keystrokes away." Laserquote is a 24/7 service. Once registered, customers simply logs on and can upload a two dimensional DXF drawing; the system can also accommodate multiple drawings. Next the user is invited to select the material and input details of other characteristics of the part or parts. The system then automatically calculates the best nesting arrangement for optimum sheet utilisation and the appropriate cutting time. Quantity is the next question and from here the system calculates a cycle time and a nest for each part. These factors then enable a price to be automatically generated – it's that simple. And if the price is right, the order can be placed online with most jobs being completed and delivered in a matter of days. Microkerf is now seeking 10 manufacturers that are prepared to see Laserquote through its software launch in July 2009. To thank them for their feedback these beta test companies will be rewarded with discounted laser cutting prices.