It’s no secret that laser technology has completely changed the manufacturing industry. Not only can we craft custom parts within seconds, but the precision is also unbeatable. And currently, there are four types of laser cutters dominating the industries.
But which laser technology should you go to? What are these 4 types of laser cutters? Time to find out!
Understanding Laser Cutting Technology
Laser cutting technology utilizes a high-energy laser beam to precisely cut, melt, or vaporize materials. This CNC (Computer Numerical Control) process is highly versatile and can handle various materials such as metals, plastics, and textiles. Laser cutting is ideal for intricate designs and mass production in modern manufacturing. The efficiency and speed of laser cutting technology outshines the other cutting methods.
What is Laser Cutting?
Laser cutting is a technology that uses a focused laser beam to cut various materials with excellent precision and high speed. It’s an entirely non-contact, thermal-based fabrication process.
Laser cutting technology has become a significant part of the modern manufacturing industry. Its versatile quality has proven its worth as it can be modified to adapt to any application and materials. From metal to plastic, wood to fabric, even diamonds can be cut, marked, or engraved with this extraordinary innovation.
Laser cutting technology offers many benefits. One of the exceptional benefits is that it has a smaller form factor that generates low heat and enhances performance by delivering excellent precision. Unlike traditional manufacturing processes, it offers broader material compatibility and allows the evaluation of new possibilities.
With the passing days, industries have become more competent thanks to this fantastic technology!
Types of Laser Cutters
As we explore further, we can see how diverse the laser cutting technology is! Each type of laser cutter is unique while offering the best performance from its stance.
There are mainly 4 types of laser cutting machines. They are-
- Fiber lasers
- CO2 lasers
- Nd: YAG/Nd: YVO Laser
- Direct diode lasers.
Let’s explore further and learn in detail about their qualities, benefits, and limitations.
Fiber Lasers
Fiber laser cutters are the strongest among the laser cutters and have some remarkable qualities. The anatomy of fiber laser cutting machines is also quite interesting. These cutters use a stack of diodes and fiber optics in the laser machine. These fiber optics and diodes generate a high-intensity laser beam that can slice through any material nicely!
With fiber lasers, it is possible to efficiently cut through up to 40mm thick carbon steel with very high wattage. This quality indeed gives the machines an extra privilege over other laser cutters.
Fiber laser cutters have a long operational life of at least 30000 laser hours to more than 100000 laser hours. Regular maintenance and care can extend the longevity and durability of the machine. The machines can also operate in constant, quasi-continuous, or pulse modes.
Indeed, they are very well-known for their adaptability. The machine’s range of potential uses has made them the first choice for many manufacturing industries.
CO2 Lasers
The CO2 laser cutters are another revolutionary innovation of laser technology. As the name suggests, this laser technology involves a gas mixture dominated by CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) gas. Besides carbon dioxide, there are also helium and nitrogen. The gas mixture produces a laser beam that helps the CO2 laser cutters cut through various materials.
The CO2 laser cutters generally operate with a substantial range of between 25 and 100 wattages. The strongest can even produce many kilowatts of energy for industrial machinery use. This exceptional rule has marked them as a high-demanding machine in industrial areas.
Despite being very powerful, there may be a drop in power and quality. It happens during the beam’s travel toward the lens. When the laser beam is produced from the gas mixture, it travels through the mirrors and lenses to intensify its power. But power and quality can drop when it moves through the mirrors.
However, this limitation can’t shadow other qualities of the CO2 laser cutters. CO2 laser cutter’s scale and versatility have proven their worth in many aspects, making them a top choice in many industrial, medical, and manufacturing industries.
Nd: YAG/Nd: YVO Lasers
Laser cutters have further diversified with Nd: YAG (Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet) and Nd: YVO (Neodymium-doped Yttrium orthovanadate) lasers. Nd: YAG/Nd: YVO is also called crystal laser cutters.
These solid-state lasers have established a strong niche in some industries due to their strength and versatility. Also, their remarkable ability has made them popular in many manufacturing industries.
The main reason for calling them crystal laser cutters is their use of crystals. The machines generate an ultraviolet laser beam with the help of neodymium-doped crystals. Usually, semiconductors and other electronic materials can be easily sliced with this cutter.
Yag lasers can produce wavelengths of around 1064 nm. It also makes them suitable for cutting metal like stainless steel, aluminum, etc. Also, the ability to produce high energy output can successfully acquire great precision and proficiency.
Furthermore, their enhanced performance has made them durable and reliable in various manufacturing industries.
Direct Diode Lasers
Diving deeper into laser cutting technology, we find another fantastic innovation in laser cutting machines- Direct Diode Lasers. DDL, or Direct Diode Lasers, is well-known for its exceptional quality and proficiency.
Direct Diode Lasers generally use diodes directly to generate the desired wavelength. They can even produce wavelengths of 800 to 980nm with a high cutting speed. Also, the machines can efficiently turn a significant amount of electrical energy into laser light. This quality has made them cost-effective and exceptionally proficient.
Additionally, they offer unique characteristics combined with speed and compactness. All these qualities surely built a powerful stance for them in many manufacturing industries.
4 Types of Laser Cutters: Comparison
| Laser Type | Wavelength (nm) | Cooling | Efficiency | Applications | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber Lasers | 1060-1090 | Air or water | High | Metal cutting, welding, engraving | Compact, high efficiency, excellent beam quality | Limited to specific materials |
| CO2 Lasers | 10,600 | Water | Moderate to high | Wood, plastics, textiles, ceramics | Good for non-metal materials, high power output | Less effective on metals |
| Nd:YAG/Nd:YVO4 Lasers | 1064 (Nd:YAG), 1342 (Nd:YVO4) | Water or air | High (especially Nd:YVO4) | Medical applications, cutting, welding | High power density, good thermal stability | Higher cost and complexity |
| Direct Diode Lasers | 800-980 | Air | Moderate | Materials processing, printing | Compact and efficient for specific tasks | Limited power output compared to others |
Laser Cutting Applications
The versatility and adaptability of laser cutting technology have brought a revolutionary change in various industries. This technology plays a crucial role in manufacturing industries, from engraving a detailed, delicate design in a non-metal material to creating a sleek cut-to-metal object.
Industries that Use Laser Cutting
Laser-cutting technology has become an inevitable part of numerous industries.
Electronics, medicine, aerospace, automotive, healthcare, defense, design, and many other industries extensively utilize this technology. Some of the prime sectors are discussed briefly.-
Electronics: Maintaining accuracy and precision is crucial to cutting, engraving, and marking complex particles of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and other electronic items. Laser technology aids in achieving the goal successfully.
Medical Industry: Surgical instruments like scalpels, forceps, valve frames, scissors, stents, bone reamers, vascular clips, etc. must be strong and durable. So, laser cutting machines are pivotal in making those instruments with precision, speed, and accuracy.
Aerospace: Extremely sensitive, has high-quality standards, and is precision-driven. Only laser cutting can match the aerospace industry standards these days.
Automotive: Automotive industry requires high tolerance and precision to craft intricate components and customization. Laser cutting machines are perfect for this sector to achieve this goal.
Defense: Laser cutting technology helps to create fine cuts in complex parts with critical dimensions and geometries. Aircraft, military, and spacecraft use this technology widely.
Jewelry industry: Laser cutting machines are widely used to create delicately detailed designs for precious metals. Besides marking, engraving, and cutting precious stones, other materials need proper concentration and accuracy. The use of different types of laser cutting technology ensures excellent outcomes.
It’s astounding how widespread the application of laser cut technology is. Though only a few are discussed here, the laser cutting technology application is much more enormous.
Moreover, despite being able to cut any materials, it has a notable application in metal cutting. It can cut metals like steel, brass, nickel, tungsten, aluminum, and iron with great precision and accuracy.
Materials that Can be Laser Cut
By now, it should be clear how convenient this technology is! Both metallic and nonmetallic materials can be cut through a laser cutting machine. Let’s explore a few common materials and learn how well laser cutters can handle them!
Metals: Laser cutters showed excellence in processing metals over traditional methods. Metals like- steel, stainless steel, iron, aluminum, brass, titanium, gold, and many other metals can be easily cut precisely. Be extra careful while cutting reflective metal materials though.
Plastics: Various types of plastics like acrylic and polycarbonate, PTEG, plywood, etc can be easily laser cut. These machines help to create polished edges and intricately detailed designs.
Fabrics: A laser cutter is undoubtedly a game-changer in this industry! In the textile industry, fabrics like various types of cotton, linen, polyester, leather, etc., can be cut simultaneously. Cutting multiple layers synchronously enhances production proficiency in the textile industry.
Ceramics: It’s a very challenging and sensitive sector for laser cutting. However, even ceramic can be worked with specialized cutters like the CO2 laser cutter or the Nd: YAG laser.
Wood: Laser cutting technology provides complicated, detailed cutting, marking, and engraving with smooth finishing in wooden furniture, art, etc.
Glass: Glass cutting requires extra precautions to avoid any cracking. With laser cutters, precision can be achieved in many manufacturing industries. Since glass is a reflective material, the laser cutter should be chosen with caution.
Many other materials can be laser-cut in various industries. The thickness, quality, heat sensitivity, and many other factors help to determine the suitable laser cutting technology for a particular material.
Choosing the Right Laser Cutters
When choosing the laser cutter, you need to choose the right laser cutter according to the properties of the material, application, power output, and other requirements.
Application and Material Properties
In the manufacturing realm, it is essential to maintain precision and efficiency. Material cutting, marking, engraving, and processing are held by laser cutting technology in numerous industries. So, if you plan to have one for your business, you must set the priorities according to the business outline.
Here are some tips for you to choose the right one-
- Firstly, outline the business application. The main factor in choosing the right technology is which sector your business is related to.
- Secondly, laser cutting technology should be chosen according to the material quality, type, and thickness. If your business includes cutting thick materials like acrylic, wood, etc, you can choose the CO2 laser cutter. This technology excels in cutting, marking, and engraving intricate designs in non-metal materials.
- You can opt for the fiber laser cutter if it is related to shiny, reflective, and thin materials. Fiber laser cutters deliver great precision and accuracy in cutting, marking, or engraving metal, especially thin ones. Also, you should make a budget for the upfront cost, maintenance cost, and production volume.
- Thirdly, make a plan for your future. This means how you are planning to expand and grow your business. With time, every business and production needs to be updated with running technology. This helps grow the business and achieve the highest outcome.
- For example- if the business primarily deals with fusion and flame cutting, you can opt for laser cutting for better outcomes. Fusion-cutting or flame-cutting technology may be effective for thick materials like low-alloy steel. It’s not suitable for thin material or intricate design.
So, you should consider all the facts intensively before choosing the right one.
Operating Costs and ROI
The operating costs and ROI (return on investment) vary according to the cutting technologies.
Flame-cutting technology is versatile and can cut a diverse range of metals. However, the operating cost of a flame cutter is relatively high because of the fuel gas. The flame cutter mainly functions through fuel and provides an accurate and profitable outcome.
On the other hand, laser cutter machines offer low operating costs. Also, the efficiency level is quite admirable, and this process promotes less energy consumption. For a single laser cutter, a good ROI is roughly 30%. That means the machine can deliver high-quality cuts with minimal downtime.
In another picture, a 10% annual ROI is acceptable for a large factory dealing with multiple laser cutters
Laser Cutting Processes
The laser cutting technology mainly operates in two processes. One is Fusion laser cutting, and the other is Vaporised laser cutting. Let’s see how these two processes work-
Fusion Laser Cutting (Melt Cutting)
Fusion laser cutting, aka melt cutting, is one of the standard laser cutting processes. A strong laser beam focuses on a specific area of the metal. This laser beam melts the particular area and creates a fine cut in the metal.
The process starts with a high-intensity laser beam generating high power and heat. This heat focuses on a specific area steadily until the metal of that area melts. During the process, the laser beam needs to be in farm mode until the melting starts.
This helps to create a fine cut with a smooth edge. It is an effective method to cut metal with high precision within the shortest time.
Vaporization Laser Cutting (Laser Sublimation Cutting)
Vaporization laser cutting is another laser-cutting process. This process is also known as Laser Sublimation Cutting. The process is applied to non-metal materials.
The process is called sublimation, as the laser beam focuses on a specific place until the material reaches its vaporizing point.
While dealing with the laser cutting process directly, some safety precautions should be practiced to avoid accidents.
Let’s talk about the precautions and safety rules that we need to follow according to the category of lasers.
Understanding Class 3 and Class 4 Lasers
To ensure the safety of people, including the environment, it’s essential to understand what Class 3 and Class 4 lasers are and their code of conduct. Without following these measures, you may expose your eyes and skin to potential harm. So, laser safety procedures are highly encouraged and, in many cases, are obligatory.
Based on their power output, All the lasers are classified into two classes- class 3 and class 4. Again, class 3 lasers are divided into classes- Class 3A and Class 3B.
Class 3 Lasers
The lower power output generator lasers are comprised under Class 3A. This laser power output can cause eye injury through direct viewing for a long time. Under normal circumstances, they are considered safe.
On the other hand, class 3B lasers are considerably more powerful. These lasers can cause forthright eye damage upon direct exposure. So, strict safety precautions are a must when dealing with those lasers.
Class 4 Lasers
The highest power categorized lasers are considered the most hazardous. These types of lasers are comprised of Class 4 lasers. The eyes and skin can be seriously injured due to the intense energy. Also, fire hazards may be caused in this situation.
Understanding the classification can help one to establish safety protocols. Proper safety, compatible training, and protective measures are indispensable when dealing with laser machines. By doing so, you can appease the ultimate risk and ensure safety.
Comparison to CNC Machining
- Laser cutting uses a focused laser beam for precision, while CNC machining employs rotating tools for material removal.
- CNC is better for dense materials; lasers excel at intricate designs on various materials.
- CNC cutting is generally cheaper, but laser cutting offers lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts.
- Lasers have faster cycle times for thin materials, while CNC is quicker for thicker cuts.
Conclusion
Choosing the right one for your industry is not very difficult now that you know the different types of laser cutters. Simply focus on your priorities, budgets, the type of product you’re purchasing, and the cut quality you want.
Or, compare laser cutters with CNC machining to better asses your industry’s needs!
For the most precise fiber laser cutting services, reach out to Baison Laser, an industry leader in highly accurate fiber laser services. With more than 20 years of experience and 300+ patents, we serve over 100 countries and regions. At Baison Laser, we have the most advanced and diverse set of laser cutting cutting’ beasts’ purposes.
State your needs; get a quote today!
