Bar cutting optimizer for available stock
Bar cutting optimization is a packing problem: several requested part lengths must fit into a limited number of raw bars while accounting for cuts. MetalCut searches for practical layouts rather than forcing you to do the arithmetic manually.
Browser-based · No sign-up · Straight 1D cuts only
Finished parts + cutting allowances + leftover = stock length
What this calculation covers
The tool supports multiple raw bar lengths and quantities. For example, a shop can enter three 3,000 mm bars plus two 1,500 mm offcuts and let the planner try different layouts for the listed parts.
Best-fit heuristics may miss another valid arrangement or a lower-scrap result. Treat the proposed layout as an aid to be checked, not an optimality certificate.
A real-number cut list example
Three 950 mm sections are 2,850 mm of finished product. Allowing a 3 mm cut per piece adds 9 mm, leaving an estimated 141 mm on a 3,000 mm bar when there is no trim or reserve.
Length balance: 2850 mm finished + 9 mm kerf + 141 mm leftover = 3000 mm stock.
This illustrative example assumes zero head trim and tail reserve. Always enter your actual machine allowances.
How to prepare a cutting plan
Count the real inventory
Enter the quantity of each length available; do not assume unlimited stock.
Specify each part
Supply finished lengths and required quantities, not rough lengths including kerf.
Review every bar
Consider short tail pieces as scrap and longer remnants as reusable according to your chosen threshold.
Enter stock, parts and saw kerf in the free 1D MetalCut calculator.
Common questions
Are remnants accepted as input?
Yes. Enter a leftover bar as another available stock row.
Is the optimizer suitable for sheet cutting?
No. This is one-dimensional bar stock planning, not two-dimensional nesting.