A laser cutter works accurately, but a digital dimension is not always the exact same physical dimension under all circumstances. The cut has width, sheet material varies, and with thicker materials, the cut can be slightly tapered.
Where does dimensional difference come from?
- Kerf width: the laser removes a narrow strip of material.
- Material thickness: the actual sheet thickness may differ from the nominal size.
- Material behavior: wood, acrylic, rubber, and foam react differently to heat and stress.
- Design and orientation: small holes, fine details, and joints are more sensitive to deviations.
Do not design a fit based on a general table
A tight, sliding, or loose fit depends on the material, thickness, shape, and desired function. Therefore, do not use a universal compensation value for every design.
First create a test piece
For critical joints, design a small series of slots or holes with increasing dimensions. Have them made in the same material and thickness as the final product. This way, you can choose the fit based on the actual result before ordering a full series.
Responsibility for the application
We produce according to the provided file, but we do not certify the design for a specific technical or safety-critical application. Therefore, check and test yourself whether the dimensions, strength, and fit are suitable for the final use.