Optimized Cut

An optimized cut is a cutting plan generated by optimization software that arranges required parts on stock material to minimize waste, reduce stock pieces used, and lower cutting cost or time. It applies to sheet goods, linear stock, or roll material, solving the cutting stock problem by considering part dimensions, quantities, stock sizes, kerf, grain direction, and trim margins.

On the shop floor, an optimized cut tells the saw operator or CNC nest exactly which parts go on each parent sheet or bar before material is issued, removing trial-and-error layout and preventing over-issuing stock. In warehousing, the optimizer connects to available stock sizes and usable offcuts, so leftovers are consumed first instead of opening new material, improving inventory utilization and reducing scrap accumulation. In procurement, the plan's output feeds true material demand because kerf loss, trim waste, and packing efficiency are included, changing the number of sheets, bars, or coils ordered. The system solves a 1D linear cutting problem for bar or pipe and a 2D nesting problem for panels, aiming for minimum waste plus secondary goals like fewer parent stock pieces or less operating time. Key parameters include kerf width, grain-lock or rotation restrictions, trim allowance, and whether offcuts are allowed back into the reusable stock pool.