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There are several laser cutting machines for metals based on the laser used for cutting, material, and the industry's needs. These are the common types:
Fiber laser cutting machines use a glass fiber laser to cut and engrave metals. This type is very effective for cutting thin metals. It also consumes less energy and is cheaper than a CO2 laser-cutting machine.
CO2 laser-cutting machines use a gas-CO2 laser to cut non-metallic and some thin metallic materials. It is highly efficient in cutting acrylic, wood, leather, glass, and other non-metal materials.
Both fiber and CO2 lasers efficiently combine lasers in hybrid laser cutting machines. They are versatile systems that can cut various materials by changing the laser settings.
15watt CO2 laser engraver is best for cutting thin materials as it is portable and lightweight. It can cut paper, plastic, and wood and is used by craftsmen in small workshops.
Industrial laser cutting machines are large-scale, high-power laser systems. They are designed to cut dense materials for high-volume commercial production without any effect on quality.
Handheld laser cutting machines are portable, small machines. They are mostly used for repairs and small, quick projects in areas where larger equipment can't access.
Laser cutting and engraving machines integrate cutting with engraving and marking. These machines are employed in the manufacturing sector for branding and creating detailed product designs.
Laser cutting machines are widely used intransitional processes in businesses to increase productivity, precision, and efficiency in operations. Some common commercial uses include:
Metal fabrication businesses use laser cutters to create very accurate and complex cuts in metals. Its speed and accuracy help produce parts for machinery, equipment, and industrial components.
Laser cutting machines help sign companies make signs more accurately. These machines cut acrylic, metal, and wood for custom signage while maintaining consistent branding and designs.
In the fashion industry, laser cutting machines cut fabrics, leather, and other materials. This gives intricate designs, patterns, and even custom pieces that improve design flexibility.
Laser cutters allow manufacturers of electronic devices to cut materials such as circuit boards and components. The precision ensures functional parts and design compact gadgets.
In the automotive industry, there is a heavy reliance on laser cutting machines. They are used in the production of parts, components, and subassemblies while ensuring high precision and quick cutting.
The laser cutting machine is used in the packaging industry to cut paperboard and plastic materials. This results in custom packaging solutions such as boxes, containers, and insets.
Laser cutting machines in large-scale printing businesses cut printed materials. This adds unique shapes and finishes to labels, cards, brochures, and other products which enhance their look.
Custom equipment manufacturers rely on laser cutters for hardware, jigs, and fixtures. With high precision, it becomes easier to design products and reduce time in crafting them.
In the promotional products industry, laser cutting machines are used to engrave awards. This allows for detailed customizations on plaques, glass, and metal for personal and corporate gifts.
Across electrical, automotive, and construction industries, laser cutting machines are vital for creating precise, intricate cuts in various materials involved in product design, manufacturing, and assembly, which improves efficiency and lower costs.
Laser Power The power of a laser cutting machine determines what material it can cut through and how thick. The more powerful a laser, the deeper and quicker it can cut. A fiber laser cutting machine usually has between 500 and 6000 watts of laser power, while a CO2 laser typically ranges from 40 to 800 watts. Complex cuts on strong material require high power, while softer material cutting need less power.
Cutting Speed This is the rate at which a laser cutting machine moves while cutting material, usually measured in inches per minute or millimeters per minute. Laser cutting machines with high power levels have faster cutting speeds compared to those with low power levels. For example, aluminum 3mm thick can be cut at about 118 inches per minute with a 3000 watt laser.
Engraving Speed The engraving speed denotes how quickly a laser cutter moves while marking or engraving surfaces. Engraving is cutting through a material surface to create designs, patterns, or text. For laser cutting machines with CO2 lasers, the typical engraving speed ranges from 5 to 150 inches per minute. For fiber lasers, engraving speeds can reach up to 1000 inches per minute. The kind of material and depth of engraving wanted mainly influence the speed.
Table Size The table size of a industrial laser machine pixel printer determines how large a material sheet can be fixed on the machine. Smaller machines have tables around 24 x 18 inches or 610 x 460 millimeters. Larger machines have tables over 5 feet or 1.5 meters on each side. If big materials need to be processed, a large laser cutting machine is required.
Laser Cuttable materials Many materials can be cut using a laser cutting machine. Thin metals, plastics, wood, leather, fabrics, glass, and non-ferrous materials are easily processed. Each material requires specific settings for the best cut finish.
Material thickness The thickness of materials that can be laser-cut varies with the type of laser. CO2 laser cutting machines handle materials up to 25 millimeters thick, while fiber lasers cut materials as thick as 30 millimeters.
Engraving capabilities Laser cutting machines cut materials and offer engraving. Deep, detailed engravings or surface markings are possible with rotary attachments or lower power settings.
Automation Automated features such as focusing, material handling, and process control are available in some advanced models. This reduces labor and increases efficiency in high-volume production situations.
Cooling System Cooling systems, including water cooling and air cooling, keep the laser focal point steady during long-use periods. This helps maintain cutting power and protects the machine from heat damage.
Choosing the right laser cutting machine for metal requires major considerations to deliver efficiency in operations. Below are some key factors to consider:
Material The main aspect of the laser cutting machines' effectiveness is the material used. For non-metallic materials and thin metal sheets, CO2 laser cutting machines are mostly preferred. For thick materials, fiber lasers are more efficient.
Laser power Laser power significantly affects cutting capacity. High-powered lasers easily cut dense materials, while low-powered machines are ideal for thin sheets. It also helps high-powered machines engrave and cut at high speeds.
Table configuration Laser cutting machines have varying work surfaces based on their construction. Choose between a cantilever, flat, or a conveyorized table, depending on preference and the business's space situation. Also, consider the size of materials to be used.
Precision and speed Precision and speed are major factors in selecting a laser cutting machine that performs efficiently. It is important to buy machines with faster cutting speeds to deliver a quick workflow. In doing this, it is important to ensure that precision is not compromised, especially on intricate designs.
Costs of maintenance Maintenance costs include procedures, repairs, and replacement of parts; they also include the operational costs of a maintenance program. Operational cost influences machine usage and work-hour expectations. Machines with lower maintenance costs and time should be preferred.
Software Advanced software allows easy control for the operator, simulation of patterns for accuracy, and integration into the current production system. Most machines today are compatible with popular design software such as AutoCAD.
A1. Yes, laser cutting machines can cut thick metal, especially fiber lasers with high power. These lasers, at high power, create precise, clean cuts through heavy sheets, delivering detailed work, even on thick surfaces.
A2. Unlike laser cutting machines that use concentrated light rays, laser cutting machines create detailed, clean cuts. Lase cutting machines are preferred for thin sheets, while plasma cutting machines are more efficient for thick sheets.
A3. Regular maintenance of a laser cutting machine is necessary to efficiently operate the machine. Maintenance activities include routine checks of laser tubes, lenses, mirrors, and cooling systems. Daily cleaning and inspection for wear and tear should be done. Also, follow the manufacturer's service schedule.
A4. Laser cutting machines cut and engrave materials. They use different laser settings and attachments to mark surfaces with precision. Materials like metal, acrylic, wood, and glass are deeply or superficially engraved into detailed designs.
A5. Yes, laser cutting machines have a high level of precision, quick cutting speed, and flexibility. While other methods like mechanical cutting offer high precision, laser cutting machines are more efficient as they require less tool wear and offer a quicker turnaround for detailed work.