Laser Cutting

Laser cutting in metal is a precise and efficient process used in manufacturing and fabrication industries to cut metal materials into specific shapes or designs. It involves using a high-powered laser to melt, burn, or vaporize the metal along a defined path, producing clean, precise cuts with minimal material wastage. Here’s an in-depth look at how laser cutting works for metals:

Key Components of Laser Cutting in Metal:

Laser Source:

• Fiber Lasers: Most commonly used for cutting metals due to their high power, efficiency, and ability to handle reflective metals like aluminum, brass, and copper.
• CO2 Lasers: Can also be used but are less effective for highly reflective metals. They are better suited for non-metals or thicker metal materials.

Cutting Process:

• The focused laser beam (often just a few microns in diameter) generates high heat that melts or vaporizes the metal in the cutting area.
• The laser head moves along the programmed path using CNC (Computer Numerical Control) systems, enabling the laser to cut complex and intricate shapes with precision.

Assist Gas:

• Oxygen: Enhances the cutting process for carbon steel by creating an exothermic reaction that increases the cutting speed.
• Nitrogen: Used for cutting stainless steel and aluminum. It prevents oxidation and results in a cleaner edge, as nitrogen is an inert gas that doesn’t react with the molten metal.
• Compressed Air: Sometimes used for thinner metal cuts to blow away molten material from the cutting area.