Sourcing

A spec sheet sells a machine; a factory visit or a sample cut tells you what you are buying. Work through these checks before signing.

1. The spec sheet

• Power — what is the rated output at the workpiece, not installed power.
• Bed size — 1500×3000 mm is standard; smaller beds restrict nesting.
• Laser source — brand and warranty terms; sources are the costliest part.
• Cutting head — brand, what is covered, what is consumable.
• Controller — industry-standard controllers are easier to service and hire for.

2. Sample cutting

Ask for samples in your own material, at your thickness, with the edge quality you require. Test pierce time and cut quality on thick sections, not just speed on thin sheet.

3. After-sales realities

• Who services the machine in your country, and what is the response time?
• Spare parts availability and lead time.
• Training: operator training and process parameter libraries.

4. Contract terms

Specify acceptance criteria, installation scope, warranty period, spare parts list and delivery dates in the contract. For cross-border terms see trade basics.