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How does laser cutting work

How does laser cutting work: An in-depth explanation

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to how laser cutting works! In this page we will give you a detailed insight into the laser cutting process, the technology behind it and its applications. Whether you are a student, a hobbyist or a professional, we hope this guide helps you better understand the world of laser cutting.

What is laser cutting?

Laser cutting is an advanced technology that uses a laser beam to cut materials accurately and efficiently. It is a common method in various industries, including metalworking, electronics, automotive and even the fashion industry. Due to the precision and versatility of laser cutting, it is possible to create complex shapes and patterns in various materials.

How does laser cutting work?
Laser cutting of, for example, wood / plywood

How does laser cutting work?

The laser cutting process begins with a powerful laser source, which emits an intense, concentrated beam of coherent light. This light beam is then directed at the material to be cut. The properties of the material determine how the laser will cut the material. For example, a fiber laser is usually used for metal materials, while a CO2 laser is often used for other materials such as wood and acrylic.

When the laser beam hits the material, it is absorbed and converted into heat. The material starts to melt, vaporize or burn, depending on the type of material and the laser settings. A computer system, which controls the movement of the laser, directs the laser beam along the desired cutting line(s) to cut the material.

The cutting process is often aided by an auxiliary gas, such as nitrogen or oxygen, which is blown onto the material during the laser process. This gas helps keep the cut clean, blows away molten material, and improves heat dissipation.

Advantages of laser cutting

Laser cutting offers several advantages over traditional cutting methods. Some key benefits are:

  1. High precision: Laser cutting makes it possible to make very precise and detailed cuts, even in complex shapes and patterns.
  2. Less material waste: Because laser cutting creates a narrow cut, less material is wasted compared to other cutting methods.
  3. No physical contact: Because laser cutting is a non-contact method, the material is not damaged by physical contact with the tool, reducing the risk of deformation or contamination.
  4. Versatility: Laser cutting can be applied to a wide variety of materials, such as metals, wood, plastic, textiles and more.

Applications of laser cutting

Laser cutting is used in various industries due to its versatility and accuracy. Some applications include:

  • Metalworking: Laser cutting is widely used in the metalworking industry for cutting metal sheets, tubes, and profiles.
  • Electronics: Engraving components are some applications of laser cutting in the electronics industry.
  • Automotive industry: Laser cutting is used in the fabrication of car parts, such as chassis, body parts and exhaust systems.
  • Fashion industry: Laser cutting offers designers the ability to create complex patterns and details in fabrics and leather.

Safety considerations for laser cutting

While laser cutting is an efficient and versatile cutting method, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind. Since lasers are a powerful source of energy, it is essential to take proper safety precautions to avoid injury. It is important to wear goggles specifically designed for the wavelength of the laser being used. In addition, laser cutting machines must be properly shielded to prevent the laser beam from being accidentally exposed to people or objects. It is also essential to be aware of and strictly follow the specific safety guidelines of the laser cutting machine manufacturer.

The safest are normally closed laser machines, provided they are secured with the right parts. Then these are laser class 1 machines: safe under all conditions. Find out more about laser safety here.

More about laser safety

The future of laser cutting

Laser cutting continues to evolve and new technological developments are constantly being made to improve the process and open up new possibilities. One area of research is the development of ultra-short pulse lasers, which enable even finer and more detailed cuts. More and more hybrid machines are also being developed that combine laser cutting with other processing processes, such as 3D printing. These hybrid machines offer a wider range of capabilities and enable manufacturers to produce complex parts with improved efficiency. With the continued advancement in laser cutting technology, we can expect applications to continue to grow and laser cutting to continue to play a vital role in many industries.

Conclusion

Laser cutting is an advanced technology with diverse applications in various industries. Using a concentrated laser beam, materials can be precisely cut with minimal waste. The advantages of laser cutting, such as high precision and versatility, make it a popular choice for producing complex shapes and patterns. Whether in metalworking, electronics or fashion, laser cutting has played an important role in improving manufacturing processes and driving innovation.