{"id":5524,"date":"2020-01-21T18:33:23","date_gmt":"2020-01-21T15:33:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fractory.com\/?p=5524"},"modified":"2024-01-26T16:15:40","modified_gmt":"2024-01-26T14:15:40","slug":"what-can-laser-cutters-cut","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fractory.com\/what-can-laser-cutters-cut\/","title":{"rendered":"What Can a Laser Cutter Cut?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Laser cutting is so popular largely because of its versatility. Laser cutters can cut a wide variety of materials – anything from paper, wood, cork, acrylic and foam to different types of metals<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Still, there are some materials that would seemingly fit well into this list but should never be cut using a laser cutter. So let’s further explore the possibilities.<\/p>\n

Suitable Materials for Laser Cutting<\/h2>\n

One of the biggest advantages of laser cutting<\/a>\u00a0i<\/span>s the ability to cut a wide range of materials. At the same time, you should be aware of the properties of each material. Some of them need extra attention when cutting.<\/p>\n

Remember, we are talking only about materials here. But aside from that, tube laser cutting<\/a> can also tackle a wide range of profiles, from square tubes to open channels.<\/p>\n

Different Metals<\/h3>\n

\"laser<\/p>\n

Laser cutters can cut all types of metals, from mild steel<\/a> to stainless and also non-ferrous metals<\/a>. More reflective metals like aluminium are more difficult to cut. In those instances, fibre lasers<\/a> are the better option.<\/p>\n

The thickness of the metal can be anywhere up to 30 mm. The maximum thickness, however, depends on the laser cutting service<\/a>.\u00a0It<\/span> varies based on the power of the laser as well as the expertise of the machine operator.<\/p>\n

Wood<\/h3>\n

\"Laser<\/p>\n

Different types of wood, including plywood and MDF, are suitable for cutting. You should, however, be aware of oils or resin, as they pose a threat of catching fire.<\/p>\n

Paper & Cardboard<\/h3>\n

\"Laser<\/p>\n

Yes, also suitable for laser cutting. That’s exactly how the popular intricate wedding invitations are made.<\/p>\n

Plastics<\/h3>\n

Acrylic, PMMA and Lucite are all see-through plastics. All of them also leave a great finish when laser cut. The edges are melted in a way that they seem polished.<\/p>\n

POM<\/h3>\n

Another plastic laser cutters can cut. POM is a highly utilised plastic in the engineering sector, finding usage in gears, guiding and sliding elements, medical instruments, food packaging, etc.<\/p>\n

The ability to perform complex cuts with lasers definitely contributes to POM’s variety of use cases.<\/p>\n

Can a Laser Cutter Cut Glass?<\/h3>\n

Laser cutting glass is a seemingly impossible task because of its fragile and reflective properties. However, laser cutters can cut glass<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The reflectiveness of glass poses requirements to the power of your laser cutting equipment. Also, the cutter must have a cooling system. Only then can the machine operator have full control over the direction of the fracture at every step, resulting in a good finish.<\/p>\n

\n
\n Scale Your Manufacturing from Prototyping to Series<\/span>\n\n