# Choosing a cutting route: laser, waterjet or machining

Compare complete routes by edge requirements, thermal effects, geometry and secondary work.

Reviewed: 2026-11-02

## Compare the delivered part, not only the cutting operation

For a bracket with a datum-critical locating hole, compare a finished profile with a cut blank whose hole is machined later. Accept the as-profiled hole only with capability evidence for its size and position in the actual material and thickness. If it needs machining, specify stock allowance, how the second setup locates the blank, and when to inspect the hole.

Use [laser timing](../processes/laser-cutting.md) for cutting and pierces, and [abrasive waterjet cutting](../processes/shaping/abrasive-waterjet-cutting.md) for taper through thickness. Use the [complete cost estimate](../costing/cost-structure-and-cost-bases.md) to compare profiling, machining, finishing and inspection at the same quantity and acceptance requirements.

## Three candidates to investigate

| Candidate | Why consider it? | What to check before choosing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Laser cutting | Thermal profiling with programmed contours and piercing | Material/thickness-specific process data, heat effects, edge condition and small features |
| Abrasive waterjet | Erosive profiling where avoiding a thermal cutting mechanism matters | Piercing, taper, jet lag, edge texture, support and cleanup |
| Cut blank followed by machining | Separates stock removal from final functional-feature production | Allowance, datum access, fixturing, additional setup and final inspection |

TRUMPF describes material- and thickness-dependent [laser cutting](https://www.trumpf.com/en_GB/solutions/applications/laser-cutting/). OMAX explains why [waterjet taper](https://www.omax.com/en/media-center/tips/taper-compensation/) can differ between straight lines and arcs. Compare capability on the actual contour.

For soft stock, consider whether [water-only cutting](../processes/shaping/water-only-waterjet-cutting.md) fits the material and edge requirements.

## Example: a bracket with a functional locating hole

In the hypothetical bracket, the perimeter may be acceptable as profiled even when the locating hole needs machining. Check edge condition after profiling. On the second setup, locate from the specified datums and leave enough material for the finishing cut. Check final hole size and [position tolerance](../parts-and-design/specifications/position-tolerance.md) with the applicable [inspection method](../inspection/methods/index.md).

## Compare quotations on the same basis

| Comparison item | Ask the route estimate to include |
| --- | --- |
| Stock | Same material condition, thickness and quantity basis |
| Preparation | Programming, stock preparation and required setups |
| Production | Profiling plus every required finishing operation |
| Acceptance | Dimensional, edge and surface requirements |
| External work | Supplier minimums, handling and transport assumptions |

Use the same drawing revision and delivered condition. [Setup amortization](../costing/methods/setup-amortization.md) shows how quantity changes the per-part cost.

## Carry the decision into production

Record the selected route, the supplied and final material conditions, the critical features, and the inspection stages. Link [material selection](../materials/grades-tempers-and-conditions.md), [workholding](../tooling/workholding-and-fixtures.md) and [surface finishing](../processes/surface-finishing.md) before treating the route as complete.

Reviewed November 2, 2026 PST. The bracket example is illustrative. Exact settings, capability, rates and lead times require applicable processor evidence.