Do you hate waste when it comes to your wood sheets? I do! It makes me crazy to have scrap wood left that I KNOW can be used, but it would take more time than it’s worth to change the wood out over and over to use up those smaller areas. I recently started using laser nesting software and WOW! This is a game-changer for anyone who does a lot of laser cutting.
Laser nesting software is a program that optimizes the use of materials and reduces waste by arranging parts on a sheet in the most efficient way possible. It’s like a puzzle solver that calculates the best layout of parts to minimize waste and maximize yield. By reducing the amount of scrap material, laser nesting software can save you and your business time and money.
Imagine you’re cutting out parts for a small gift box, several pair of earrings, and a cute little shelf sitter. Without laser nesting software, you might arrange the parts haphazardly on the sheet of material, resulting in a lot of waste. With laser nesting software, the program will arrange the parts in the most efficient way possible, minimizing waste and reducing the amount of material you need to buy. Plus, the software can help increase productivity by minimizing the time it takes to arrange parts on the sheet.
Below I’ve put together a short list of a couple free laser nesting software options available:
Deepnest: Deepnest is an open-source nesting software that is easy to use and can optimize the layout of parts in a matter of seconds. It works with a variety of file types, including DXF, SVG, and AI, and offers advanced features like custom part grouping and manual nesting.
NestLib: NestLib is a free nesting software that can handle complex shapes and designs, making it an ideal choice for businesses that need to cut intricate parts. It’s highly customizable and works with CAD systems to optimize the placement of parts on a sheet.