Materials That Can Be Cut by Laser Cutting Machines
Laser cutting machines can process a wide range of materials, depending on the laser type (CO₂, fiber, YAG, etc.) and power. Below is a list of commonly cut materials and key considerations:
1. Metals
Carbon Steel (Low, Medium, High Carbon):
Ideal for fiber lasers, thickness up to 30mm (with high power).
Clean cuts with minimal oxidation.
Stainless Steel:
Suitable for grades like 304, 316; thickness typically ≤20mm.
Nitrogen assist gas reduces oxidation.
Aluminum & Alloys:
High reflectivity requires fiber lasers (higher power).
Thickness usually ≤10mm, nitrogen recommended.
Copper & Brass:
Highly reflective; challenging, requires high-power lasers.
Titanium Alloys:
Used in aerospace; requires inert gas (e.g., argon) to prevent oxidation.
Note: Fiber lasers (1µm wavelength) are best for metals, while CO₂ lasers struggle with reflective metals.
2. Non-Metals
Acrylic (PMMA):
CO₂ lasers produce smooth, polished edges.
Wood:
Plywood, MDF, solid wood (≤20mm), but may char edges.
Plastics:
ABS, PET, polycarbonate (avoid PVC-toxic fumes).
Rubber:
Silicone, EPDM; precise cuts but risk of burning.
Fabrics & Leather:
Clean, sealed edges for textiles and fashion.
Glass & Ceramics:
Requires ultrafast (femtosecond) lasers; standard lasers may crack them.
Note: CO₂ lasers (10.6µm wavelength) are optimal for non-metals.
3. Other Specialty Materials
Composites:
Carbon fiber (risk of resin burning), laminates.
Stone:
Limited to engraving or thin cuts; not ideal for deep cutting.
Materials to Avoid or High Risk
PVC:
Releases toxic chlorine gas.
Polycarbonate (PC):
Prone to flaming and hazardous fumes.
Fluoropolymers (e.g., Teflon):
Emits extremely toxic gases.
Highly Flammable Foams:
Fire hazard.
Key Factors for Laser Cutting
1. Material Type: Metals (fiber laser), non-metals (CO₂ laser).
2. Thickness: Higher power = thicker cuts (e.g., 6kW fiber laser cuts 20mm steel).
3. Cut Quality: Precision needs may require pulsed lasers.
4. Assist Gas: Oxygen (for steel), nitrogen (stainless/aluminum), or air (cost-effective).
Always check material safety data sheets (MSDS) and test parameters (power, speed, gas) before cutting.
------Victor Feng