When someone is interested in a laser cutter’s abilities, they are likely going to take time to find the right machine. After all, this is going to ensure the best possible results are achieved. One way to find the right machine is by looking at boss laser ratings.
Once the right machine is found, it is not just “smooth sailing.” A user must consider a few things to make the most out of their laser cutter and use it to its full potential. Keep reading for some helpful tips on using laser cutters, which can be found below.
The Material Determines the Laser Cutting Process
While a laser cutting machine gets a lot of attention, it is important to note that these cutting machines can be used for a huge selection of materials. This includes everything from polymers and ceramic to thermoplastics, wood, and more. The laser cutter user needs to choose the cutting process and method based on the material being cut.
For example, fusion laser cutting is effective for cutting most thermoplastics and metals. For cutting polyacetal and acrylic materials, ablative laser cutting is a more efficient option.
There are some materials, though, that are more difficult to cut using a laser. Organic materials, such as wood and thermoset polymers, will burn, not melt when exposed to the laser. This quality ensures that the material can be engraved, but cutting is virtually impossible.
Increased Laser Power Doesn’t Mean Increased Laser Efficiency
While increasing the laser power makes it possible to cut something faster, more raw power does not mean that parts or components will be more efficient. To achieve these higher cutting speeds, the laser cutter needs time to accelerate. This makes higher wattage lasers much more effective for cutting bigger parts or parts that don’t have intricate features. The lasers do not offer as many advantages for parts with more intricate geometries because the laser must move to a new cut before reaching full speed. Deceleration and acceleration are factors that must be considered to ensure laser cutting is done efficiently.
Design Parts That Align with the Cutting Process Requirements
A mistake that many users make is assuming that the kerf width is so narrow that it is insignificant. Lasers can produce very thin cuts, usually between 30 and 300 microns, based on the process, setup, and laser wattage. While this is true, the kerf widths still have to be considered in the cutting design, so the parts remain suitable for the necessary application.
When it comes to using a laser cutter, of any type of size, there are several things to know and keep in mind along the way. If someone wants to achieve the highest efficiency levels from their laser cutters, they should keep the tips here in mind. This is going to pay off and minimize issues while ensuring the needs of the project are met. Being informed is the best way to help ensure the desired results are achieved, regardless of the project’s specifications.
