- Reflectivity: Like copper, brass reflects laser energy. Fibre lasers’ shorter wavelength is absorbed more effectively, making it the correct technology for clean brass cutting. CO2 lasers are not suitable.
- Zinc content: When brass is laser cut, the zinc component can produce fumes. Our extraction systems handle this as standard.
- Surface finish: Brass is softer than steel and marks easily during handling and processing. If surface appearance matters for your application, let us know, and we’ll take additional precautions.
- Edge quality: Nitrogen assist gas is used for brass cutting to produce a clean, oxide-free edge. On thinner material, the finish is excellent. On thicker brass, some minor dross may be present; we’ll be upfront about what to expect at any given thickness.
Laser Cutting Brass
Clean, precise brass cutting across common alloys, for engineering, decorative and architectural applications.
Brass cutting, done right.
Brass is a copper-zinc alloy, which means it shares some of copper's challenges under a laser: it's reflective, it conducts heat quickly, and it needs to be handled with care if surface finish matters.
But it's also a material with a very specific set of applications, and when you need brass parts cut, you need a supplier who processes it properly rather than treating it as an afterthought.
We cut brass on fibre laser machines. The shorter wavelength is absorbed far more effectively than CO2, which means cleaner cuts, better edge quality and no risk of back-reflection damaging the machine.
Brass Alloys We Cut
We cut the most commonly specified brass alloys used in UK engineering and fabrication.
| Specification | Typical Uses | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CZ108 (CW508L) | General engineering, decorative fittings, electrical components | Common yellow brass. Good machinability and formability. Most frequently requested. |
| CZ121 (CW614N) | Precision turned parts, fittings, valves, connectors | Free-machining brass. Contains lead for improved machinability. Often specified for engineering components. |
| CZ120 (CW612N) | Architectural features, nameplates, signage, engraving plate | Engraving brass. Good surface finish for decorative work. |
| CZ112 (CW712R) | Deep drawing, cartridge cases, radiator cores, complex pressings | High copper content brass (often called cartridge brass). Excellent ductility and cold-working properties. |
| CZ106 (CW505L) | Cold-formed components, pressings, spinning, architectural details | High ductility brass with very good cold-working characteristics. |
If you're working with a grade not listed here, contact us. We can advise on suitability and confirm availability and lead time.
Cutting Brass: What to Know
Bending and Tapping Brass
Brass bends well; it's ductile and formable. Brass will show tooling marks more readily than steel, so appropriate protection is used during press brake operations.
Tapping brass parts is possible but depends on the alloy, thickness and thread size. Contact us at the enquiry stage, and we'll advise on what's achievable.
Common Questions
If you have any questions around our laser cutting services please feel free to get in touch
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What brass alloys can you laser cut?
We cut the most common brass alloys used in UK engineering and fabrication, including CZ108, CZ121, and CZ120. If you’re unsure which alloy suits your application, our team can advise to ensure precise brass cutting for your parts.
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How thick can you cut brass sheets?
Our fibre laser machines can cut brass sheets to a range of thicknesses. Thickness capability depends on the alloy and part complexity, so send us your specifications, and we’ll confirm what’s achievable with our brass cutting services.
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Can you bend or tap brass parts after cutting?
Yes. Brass is ductile and formable, so we can handle bending and tapping alongside laser cutting. Tell us the alloy, thickness, and thread or bend requirements at the enquiry stage, and we’ll advise on what’s possible.
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Do you provide UK-wide delivery for laser-cut brass parts?
Absolutely. We deliver brass parts across the UK, either using our own transport locally or via overnight courier for longer distances. Every part can be cut, bent, tapped, and delivered ready to assemble in a single order.
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How do I get a quote for brass laser cutting?
Send us your drawings, DXF or CAD files, or even a sketch of your part. Include the alloy, sheet thickness, quantity, and application. We’ll provide a clear, competitive quote for our brass cutting services, typically with short lead times on standard alloys.
Get a Brass Cutting Quote
Tell us the alloy, thickness, quantity and deadline. If you're not sure which brass alloy you need, tell us the application, and we can advise.
Brass is sourced to order, but lead times on standard alloys are typically short. Send us your drawings, and we'll confirm availability alongside the quote.