1D Cutting & Trim Optimizer
NEWInput your stock length, add pieces with quantities, and get an optimized cutting plan that minimizes waste. Visual bar-by-bar layout shows exactly where each cut goes.
How to use 1D Cutting Optimizer
- Enter your stock bar length in millimeters (default 6000mm for standard bars).
- Add each piece type: enter its length and quantity, then click Add Piece.
- Set the blade kerf (saw thickness) if applicable — default is 3mm.
- Click Optimize to see the cutting layout and waste breakdown.
What is 1D Cutting Optimizer?
This tool uses the First-Fit Decreasing (FFD) bin-packing algorithm to assign pieces to stock bars. Pieces are sorted by length (largest first), then each piece is placed into the first bar where it fits. While FFD is a heuristic and not guaranteed to find the absolute optimum, it delivers consistently good results fast.
The blade/saw kerf (cutting width) is accounted for between every piece — set it to 0 for shears or scissors, or enter your saw blade thickness in millimeters. Color-coded segments on each stock bar let you see at a glance which pieces come from which bar, and the waste percentage tells you how efficiently material is being used.
FAQ
- How accurate is the First-Fit Decreasing algorithm?
- FFD is a fast heuristic that typically achieves 90-98% of optimal packing. It guarantees using no more than 11/9 of the optimal number of bins plus 6. For most construction and workshop needs, this is more than adequate.
- What is blade kerf and why does it matter?
- Blade kerf is the width of material removed by the saw blade (typically 2-5mm for circular saws, 1-2mm for bandsaws). Including kerf ensures your cut pieces will actually fit the remaining stock after each cut.
- Can I use this for steel bars and rebar?
- Yes. We have a dedicated Steel Bar Cutting Optimizer preset with 12000mm default stock for construction rebar. Switch to the Steel Bar Cutting tool or simply enter your steel bar dimensions here.
Related tools
- Steel Bar Cutting Optimizer
- 2D Sheet Cutting Optimizer
- Concrete Calculator
- Brick Calculator
- Rebar Calculator
- Lumber Calculator
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