FREE CUTTING PLANNING GUIDE

Aluminum extrusion and profile cutting

Aluminum extrusions are commonly supplied in long stock lengths, while assemblies need many shorter pieces. Plan compatible extrusion profiles separately and generate a straightforward length-based cutting schedule.

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WORKSHOP / LENGTH PLAN
STOCK / 6000 mmKERF / 3 mm
Illustrative segmentation — not to scale

Finished parts + cutting allowances + leftover = stock length

01 / WHEN TO USE IT

What this calculation covers

Enter the lengths and quantity of each aluminum profile you have. Use the same approach for framing extrusion or other straight profiles when the geometry of the cross-section does not affect the length calculation.

Important limitation

The web planner does not consider mitered corner joints, machining allowances, anodized-surface handling or saw-specific clamping constraints.

02 / WORKED EXAMPLE

A real-number cut list example

STOCK LENGTH6000 mm
FINISHED PARTS5800 mm
SAW KERF12 mm
LEFTOVER188 mm

Four 1,450 mm pieces make 5,800 mm of finished extrusion. If each takes a separate 3 mm cut, total kerf is 12 mm and the 6,000 mm bar leaves 188 mm.

Length balance: 5800 mm finished + 12 mm kerf + 188 mm leftover = 6000 mm stock.

This illustrative example assumes zero head trim and tail reserve. Always enter your actual machine allowances.

03 / PRACTICAL WORKFLOW

How to prepare a cutting plan

  1. Group identical sections

    Do not mix 20×20 and 40×40 extrusion, or different alloys, in one optimization run.

  2. Include end trimming

    Set a head-trim allowance if supplier stock has damaged or uneven ends.

  3. Check usable remnants

    Choose a realistic minimum offcut length for later re-use in your workshop.

Ready to check your own lengths?

Enter stock, parts and saw kerf in the free 1D MetalCut calculator.

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04 / FAQ

Common questions

Can I use aluminum extrusion stock of mixed lengths?

Yes, as long as all stock rows represent the same compatible profile and material.

Does it optimize 45-degree cuts?

No. The online calculation is for straight-length pieces and does not model angled saw cuts.

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