Cutting stock optimization for metal bars
The one-dimensional cutting stock problem asks how to assign requested part lengths to fixed raw lengths while limiting waste and respecting available inventory. It appears in bars, rods, tube and extrusion fabrication.
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Finished parts + cutting allowances + leftover = stock length
What this calculation covers
MetalCut uses several heuristic packing strategies to produce a practical layout. Heuristics are useful for everyday planning, but they can return a different solution from an exact mathematical optimizer and may fail to place all parts even where a feasible pattern exists.
Always verify all unplaced parts and any constraints the length-only model does not capture. The browser tool does not provide a mathematical proof of optimality.
A real-number cut list example
A 6,000 mm bar containing two 2,000 mm pieces and one 1,600 mm piece carries 5,600 mm of finished material. Three 3 mm cuts consume 9 mm, leaving a nominal 391 mm remainder.
Length balance: 5600 mm finished + 9 mm kerf + 391 mm leftover = 6000 mm stock.
This illustrative example assumes zero head trim and tail reserve. Always enter your actual machine allowances.
How to prepare a cutting plan
Describe inventory
Available stock quantities are constraints, not infinite supply.
Model the losses
Saw kerf, head trim and reserved tail reduce how many pieces fit.
Interpret the objective
A feasible plan is valuable, but minimum leftover, fewest bars and reusable remnants may point to different trade-offs.
Enter stock, parts and saw kerf in the free 1D MetalCut calculator.
Common questions
Is cutting stock optimization the same as nesting?
One-dimensional cutting stock handles lengths; sheet nesting is usually two-dimensional and is not handled here.
Does the optimizer guarantee zero waste?
No. Its objective is a practical layout, and physical allowances often make zero waste impossible.