(9547 products available)
The materials that a laser cutting machine can work on and the functions it can achieve depend on its type. The common types of this machine are classified according to the laser they emit. They are as follows:
These are the most powerful types of laser cutting machines. The fiber laser, which is generated by a solid-state laser such as a fiber optic cable, makes it ideal for cutting thin and thick metals.
The energy that comes with this laser puts it above the others when it comes to cutting metal. It is also very affordable to maintain due to its durability. Fiber laser cutting machines are suitable for repetitive production.
Co2 laser cutting machines are designed with a co2 gas tube. They are ideal for engraving and cutting non-metals like wood, acrylic, and paper. These machines are more affordable and suitable for low- to medium-job production.
They can also be used for cutting metals, although they are more suitable for thinner sheets. Co2 machines have a running cost that is not as high as that of fiber laser machines. The maintenance needs also increase.
Apart from being used to engrave and cut, metal tube laser cutting machines can also be used in an area that requires high cutting performance. The laser source in this case is a metal tube.
This kind of machine is suitable for industrial application laser cutting systems for the sheet metal cutting industry. Such projects require quality laser cutting that is economical and does not compromise quality.
These machines use a solid-state laser that is generated from a laser disc. Compared to other cutting machines, disc laser machines deliver superior performance, especially when cutting reflective materials.
These machines offer exceptional precision, enabling intricate designs and fine cuts that are impossible withtraditional cutting methods. In industries like aerospace, automotive, and electronics, where precision is critical, laser cutting machines play a vital role in manufacturing components with tight tolerances.
In the garment industry, laser cutting machines are used to cut fabrics into specific patterns and designs. They provide uniformity in cuts, which is crucial for maintaining consistency in clothing production. Moreover, laser cutting reduces fabric wastage by optimally arranging the designs on the material before cutting.
Laser cutting machines, particularly those with rotary attachments, excel in circular cutting tasks. In industries producing circular components, such as washers, rings, and discs, laser cutters provide a level of precision that minimizes the need for post-processing work. This efficiency is especially valuable in high-volume production environments, where even minor reductions in processing time can lead to substantial cost savings.
Laser cutting machines are also widely used for cutting tubes and pipes. Conventional methods of cutting pipes often require additional steps to smooth out the edges and make the ends usable. However, with laser cutting, the edges are polished in a single, efficient process. This not only saves time but also minimizes waste, as the need for secondary edge finishing is drastically reduced.
Furthermore, laser cutting provides highly accurate cuts, which are essential for ensuring proper fits and seals in pipe installations. This accuracy also allows for more complex designs, accommodating intricate patterns or custom fittings that might be challenging to achieve with traditional cutting methods.
One of the standout features of laser cutting machines is their ability to cut thin metals with incredible precision. Whether it's stainless steel, aluminum, or brass, lasers can create clean edges and intricate designs that traditional cutting methods simply can't match. This is especially valuable in industries like electronics, where precision is critical.
The business's cutting needs should determine the type of laser cutting machine. For instance, while co2-lasers are suitable for non-metal materials, fiber laser machines are the most powerful and are suitable for cutting thin and thick metals.
The cutting speed, cutting depth, and types of materials that the laser cutter machine can work on depend on laser power. A machine with higher laser power will have superior cutting performance. The laser power of these machines usually ranges from 80 W to 6000 W.
The working area of the laser cutting machine should be considered. This will determine whether the machine is suitable for small and large projects. A laser cutting machine with a large working area is suitable for large projects and mass production. On the other hand, a small working area is ideal for small projects and intricate designs.
When working on large projects or mass production, businesses should get laser cutting machines with an automated system. The automated machines require little manual intervention and can work continuously, increasing production efficiency.
Different laser cutting machine models have maintenance needs that are not the same. Regular maintenance is necessary for machines with high maintenance needs, which can affect their profitability. Businesses should look for laser cutting machines that require less maintenance or are easy to maintain.
The laser cutting machine's price should be within the business budget. Although businesses have to consider maintenance costs and operational costs, they should also get the laser cutting machine price online and compare it with other markets.
The cutting requirements and the business size determine the ideal laser cutting machine.
Using a laser cutting machine according to the manufacturer's recommendation and operational limitations will help avoid problems and improve cutting efficiency.
A laser cutting machine can cut through stones and glass if it has the required laser power and materials. However, the cutting speed may not be as fast as cutting metals.
For profitable laser cutting machines, the initial costs and maintenance costs must work in favor of the business. When the initial costs are high, the machine must have low maintenance costs and vice versa.
Apart from the cutting technology, blade machines also have the cutting tool attached to a rotating spindle, while laser machines use laser beams.