Efficient laser cutting demands flat steel. If it’s not flat, the laser slows down to compensate for variation in the “Z” axis. If it has trapped stresses, springback can damage the laser head.

Laser operators used to insist on temper pass for meeting flatness requirements. But temper pass:

• can be expensive,
• work hardens the surface,
• decreases thickness.

Stretcher Leveling avoids these issues and fully eliminates trapped stress (which temper pass can’t always do) so it benefits other processes like punching, bending and welding.

A reason our customers are so loyal is the steel we provide doesn’t have shape problems. That’s no accident. It’s not because we’re lucky with our steel buys. It’s because we employ corrective leveling capability that reduces or completely removes shape problems.

• Stretcher Leveling for sheets up to 0.500″ that must be ‘dead flat’ . It eliminates internal stress in the sheet, so there’s no springback after cutting (laser, shearing, punching), which makes subsequent welding and forming easier.
• Tension Leveling (using our SCS / Brushed P&O Line) for coils up to 0.250″ with edge wave or bow problems. Whether the coils go on to slitting, cut-to-length or processing (stamping, coating, etc.), shape is no longer a problem.
• Roller Leveling for material processed on our Cut-to-Length Lines. There are several roller leveling approaches and equipment manufacturers out there. We use what produces consistent, reliable flatness with no compromises.

Click the images below to get more details on our corrective leveling technologies:

Stretcher Leveling

Tension Leveling