Laser Cutting FAQs

What is laser cutting?

Laser cutting uses a high-powered laser beam to cut and shape various materials, such as metal, plastic, wood, and fabric.

What material can a laser cut?

A laser cuts several materials, including metals, plastics, wood, fabrics, leather, and paper.

How does laser cutting work?

Mirrors direct the laser beam and focus the light through a lens on a specific spot on the material. The heat generated by the laser beam melts, vaporizes, or burns, while compressed air blows away the material.

What are the benefits of laser cutting?

Laser cutting offers precise and accurate cuts, can handle complex shapes and designs, reduces material waste, and minimizes the need for secondary finishing.

What types of lasers do metal fabricators use for cutting steel?

CO2 and fiber lasers are the most common lasers used for cutting.

How thick can lasers cut steel?

The thickness of the material cut depends on the power of the laser and the material. CO2 lasers can cut up to about 1 inch thick, while fiber lasers can cut up to about 1/2 inch thick.

What is the accuracy of laser cutting?

The accuracy of laser cutting depends on the quality of the machine and the material. Typically, laser cutting can achieve accuracies of +/- 0.005 inches.

What is the maximum size of a material cut with a laser?

The maximum size of the material cut depends on the size of the laser bed. Standard sizes range from 4-ft × 8-ft; to 6-ft × 12-ft.

How fast do lasers cut a piece of material?

The cutting speed depends on the thickness and type of material, as well as the power of the laser. However, laser cutting is generally faster than traditional cutting methods.

What safety measures are there when using a laser cutter?

Proper ventilation and personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses and gloves, should protect against hazardous fumes and potential laser exposure. Operators should also receive proper training and follow established safety protocols.

What is a fiber laser?

A fiber laser uses a fiber optic cable to deliver the laser beam to the cutting head. It is known for its high-cutting speed and energy efficiency, making it a popular choice for industrial cutting applications.

What is a CO2 laser?

A CO2 laser is a gas laser that uses a mixture of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and helium to produce a high-powered laser beam for cutting, engraving, and marking materials like metal, plastic, and wood.

What types of steel can be cut with a fiber or CO2 laser?

Both fiber and CO2 lasers can cut a wide range of steel types, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy steel. The specific cutting capabilities will depend on the laser's power and the steel's thickness and composition.

How does a fiber or CO2 laser cut steel?

The laser beam heats the steel to a high temperature, causing it to melt and vaporize. The cutting head then uses a gas, such as oxygen or nitrogen, to blow away the molten metal and create a clean cut.

What are the advantages of using a fiber or CO2 laser to cut steel?

Both fiber and CO2 lasers offer high cutting speed, precision, and repeatability, making them ideal for industrial applications. They also produce minimal material waste and can handle many steel types and thicknesses.

Are there any disadvantages to using a fiber or CO2 laser to cut steel?

One potential disadvantage is the high initial cost of purchasing and maintaining a laser cutting system. Laser cutting produces hazardous fumes and requires proper ventilation and safety precautions.

What factors should be considered when choosing a fiber and CO2 laser for cutting steel?

The choice between a fiber and CO2 laser will depend on the specific cutting requirements, including the thickness and type of steel and the desired cutting speed and accuracy. Fiber lasers are typically better suited for thinner materials, while CO2 lasers may be better for thicker materials and more complex shapes.