What does laser cutting do?

Laser Cutting

Laser cutting is a technology that uses a laser to slice materials. It works by directing the output of a high-power laser - most commonly through optics. The laser optics and CNC (computer numerical control) are used to direct the material or the laser beam generated. A commercial laser for cutting materials involves a motion control system to follow a CNC or G-code of the pattern to be cut onto the material.

The Laser Cutting Process

Laser cutting involves a series of steps to ensure precise cutting of materials:
1. A laser beam is generated by stimulating a lasing material with electrical discharges contained within a closed container.
2. This beam is reflected by a series of mirrors and directed through a nozzle.
3. The laser beam is focused on the material to be cut through a specialized lens or a curved mirror.
4. The intense heat and focused laser energy at the focal point cause the material to melt, burn, vaporize, or be blown away by a jet of gas.

Types of Lasers Used in Cutting

  • CO2 Lasers: Suitable for cutting, boring, and engraving.
  • Neodymium (Nd) and neodymium yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) Lasers: Used for situations where high energy but low repetition are required.
  • Fiber Lasers: Uses a seed laser and amplifies it in specially designed glass fibers, which are especially useful for metal cutting.

Materials Suitable for Laser Cutting

Laser cutting can work with a variety of materials, including plastics, wood, glass, paper, metal, and textiles.

Advantages of Laser Cutting

  • Precision: Lasers enable high-precision cuts and the ability to cut intricate shapes without the need for tooling.
  • Speed: Cutting processes are much faster compared to other traditional cutting methods.
  • Versatility: Lasers can cut various materials and a range of thicknesses.
  • Quality: The quality of the cut is generally high, reducing the need for further finishing processes.
  • Automation: The process is easily automated with computer control.

Disadvantages of Laser Cutting

  • Heat Affected Zone: The laser cutting process can create a heat-affected zone (HAZ) which may alter the properties of the material near the cut.
  • Limitations: Cutting thickness is limited by laser power, and certain materials (like tempered glass) cannot be cut.
  • Costs: The initial investment in equipment can be high, and the running costs might be significant depending on the material and thickness of the cut.

Applications of Laser Cutting

Laser cutting is used in various industrial applications ranging from aerospace to textiles, along with small businesses and hobbies.

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