Laser cutting

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LaserCutter

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Laser cutting CAD and physical part

Laser-and-CNC-Control

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CNC Laser Cutting Machine

Laser cutting is a technology that uses a laser to cut materials, and is typically used for industrial manufacturing applications, but is also starting to be used by schools, small businesses, and hobbyists. Laser cutting 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 focused laser beam is directed at the material, which then either melts, burns, vaporizes away, or is blown away by a jet of gas, leaving an edge with a high-quality surface finish.

Types of Laser Cutters

There are three main types of laser cutters: CO2 lasers, neodymium (Nd) and neodymium yttrium-aluminium-garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers.

• CO2 lasers are the most common type used in industrial cutting of materials like wood, plastic, paper, and certain types of metal. They are versatile and offer a good balance of cutting speed and edge quality.
• Nd and Nd:YAG lasers are primarily used for boring and for high-energy engraving and cutting. Nd lasers are designed for situations requiring high energy but low repetition, whereas Nd:YAG lasers are suitable for applications requiring high power and higher repetition rates.

Laser Cutting Process

The laser cutting process involves several steps:

1. The material is prepared and placed on the cutting table.
2. The laser cutter is programmed with the design to be cut.
3. The laser beam is generated and directed onto the material, which cuts through the material by melting, burning, or vaporizing the material along the desired cut line.
4. Assist gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, or air may be used to enhance the cutting process and achieve a cleaner cut.

Materials

Laser cutting can be used on a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, wood, fabric, and acrylic. The type of material and the thickness of the material are important factors in determining the type of laser cutter to be used and the cutting parameters.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• High precision and accuracy in cutting
• Ability to cut complex shapes without the need for tooling
• Non-contact process reduces the risk of material contamination or deformation
• High speed compared to other cutting methods

Disadvantages

• High initial equipment cost
• Limitations on material thickness and type
• High energy consumption
• Potential safety hazards due to high-power laser

Applications

Laser cutting is used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, textiles, and construction. It is also popular in the arts and crafts sector for creating intricate designs in various materials.

Safety

Safety is a critical aspect of laser cutting. Operators must wear protective eyewear to shield against harmful laser radiation. Proper ventilation is also necessary to extract harmful fumes and gases generated during the cutting process. Additionally, laser cutters should be operated in accordance with the safety standards and guidelines to prevent accidents.