Definition
Nesting calculates how multiple parts fit together on a sheet, tube or profile, with as little offcut as possible and room for the cut itself. Sheet-metal or laser/plasma cutting software usually does this automatically, based on each part's outline and the sheet size.
What it means for the calculation
Material cost is often allocated per part based on the share it takes up in a nest, not the full sheet. Poor nesting raises material use per part; good nesting lowers it, especially at larger volumes or with irregular shapes. The outcome depends on how many other orders can be nested at the same time, which is hard to predict in advance.
Where this comes up
In sheet metal and profile cutting, in the material line of the calculation, and in planning, where several orders are sometimes deliberately combined to nest better.
Common mistakes
Calculating material cost as if each part uses its own sheet, when the real cost depends on how well it nests together with other parts. Also assuming nesting always happens optimally without anyone checking the result.
Material cost is often allocated per part based on the share it takes up in a nest, not the full sheet. Poor nesting raises material use per part; good nesting lowers it, especially at larger volumes or with irregular shapes. The outcome depends on how many other orders can be nested at the same time, which is hard to predict in advance.
See how Blake reviews a partFrequently asked questions
Does nesting only apply to sheet metal?
Mostly, but tubes and profiles are also nested to limit offcuts.
Who does nesting?
Usually automatically by the CAM or cutting software, with manual checking by work preparation.
Why is nesting hard to estimate in advance?
Because the best combination depends on which other orders are also ready at that moment, which is only known at planning time.