Laser cutting is a CNC cutting process in which a high powered laser is used to cut material.


In this process, a high-density beam is created by stimulating the laser material with an electrical discharge inside a closed vessel. Optical elements are used to focus the resulting laser beam onto the workpiece, effectively cutting the workpiece by melting, vaporizing or burning through it. The movement of the laser beam is controlled using CNC technology.


Types of Laser Cutting Machines


There are three main types of lasers used in laser cutting machines. They are CO 2 , Nd and Nd:Yag lasers.


Disadvantages Laser Type CO 2 (Carbon Dioxide) Nd (Neodymium) Nd: Yag (Neodymium Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet)

Benefits • High energy efficiency

• High power output ratio • High energy • High power output ratio

• Can be used to cut thicker materials

Disadvantages • Not suitable for thick sheet metal • Low repetition efficiency • Less cost effective than plasma cutters for this type of material

Applications This laser is ideal for drilling, engraving and cutting relatively thin materials This laser is mainly used for engraving and drilling This laser is suitable for manufacturing and medical industries

laser cutting material


Laser cutting can be used to cut a variety of materials such as paper, wood, metal, rock, etc., but it is widely used for material removal, materials used for sheet metal fabrication, such as: aluminum, steel, stainless steel, copper, and other metals


In general, laser cutters are ideal for cutting relatively thin sheet metal, with a maximum thickness of 15mm for aluminium and 6mm for steel. Their tolerance is typically 0.2 to 0.1 mm.


Advantages and Limitations of Laser Cutting


Due to the high precision of laser cutting, the finishing requirements for laser-cut parts are extremely low. Laser systems create a small heat-affected zone, reducing the need for post-processing heat treatments.


Compared to other cutting processes, laser cutting is more precise and versatile (material-wise) than plasma cutting, but not as good as waterjet cutting.


Laser cutting is the most widely used because of its material versatility, precision, and ability to cut and engrave at the same time (a process that water jets cannot do). It is also cheaper than waterjet cutting.


There are three main types of lasers used in laser cutting machines. They are CO 2 , Nd and Nd:Yag lasers.


laser cutting cost


The cost of laser cutting can vary widely depending on the type of laser and material selected. The easiest way to know the price of a laser cutting project is to consult multiple quotations and determine the final cooperative laser cutting manufacturer after proofing.