Laser cutting machines leverage advanced technology to swiftly cut through materials. These machines cut quickly while maintaining utmost precision whether you use them to accelerate production for industrial purposes or to create DIY projects.
But do you know how laser cutting works? The laser cutting and heavy machinery experts at Accurl are here to help you learn how types of laser cutters work and explain laser cutting technology so you understand the science behind efficiency, precision, and power.
The Physics of Laser Cutting
So, what is laser cutting and how does it work? At its very basics, laser cutting is a manufacturing process that uses a powerful and highly concentrated laser beam to vaporize, melt, cut, and otherwise alter different materials.
The development of the first laser-cutting machine involved carbon dioxide lasers (CO2), which are still in use today. However, there are additional types of laser-cutting machines as well.
Despite having different mechanisms of action, the physics of laser cutting for all types of laser cutting machines is the same. This process involves several important steps:
Laser Generation: While the exact what the laser is generated will depend on the type of laser cutting machine, every type needs to generate the laser. We’ll look closer at how this works when we detail the different types.
Focusing: After the laser beam is generated by the laser cutting machine, it needs to be highly focused on the material. This is done with a series of lenses and/or mirrors that concentrate the laser beam onto a small energy point.
Material Contact: After the laser is focused, it is streamed through a nozzle and onto the raw material, whether metal, wood, plastic, glass, or another material. When the high-powered laser meets the surface, it will melt or vaporize the material. This cuts the material, and, as long as you use a cutting-edge model like the Accurl Fiber Laser Cutting ML Plus Series will create a precise, durable edge.
Controls: Modern laser cutting machines are equipped with Computer Numerical Control (CNC) systems, allowing the operator to easily control the movement of the laser with unmatched accuracy. Using the control, you can not only input the parameters for even complex cuts, but you can also ensure safety and cut a variety of materials.
The Science Behind Different Types of Laser Cutting Machines
Now that you know the basics of how laser cutting works, let’s examine the physics of laser cutting when it comes to different types of laser cutters. Understanding laser cutting technology for these different types is important when choosing the best model for your needs.
CO2 Lasers
CO2 laser cutting technology is a tried-and-true method. Using a vacuum-sealed tube filled with carbon dioxide gas, the electrified molecules create a strong light.
The light then exits the end of the tube, bounces through mirrors and a focusing lens, and onto the material as an extremely hot point. Then, it uses the process known as thermal separation to cut through the materials with ease.
This process has been around for a long time, but it is also dependable and affordable. While it lacks some of the precision and superior edge quality of fiber laser cutters, it’s still one of the most popular choices for a variety of applications.
Crystal Lasers
A crystal laser cutter uses a crystal and neodymium to emit a concentrated beam of light. The core component is the crystal itself that, when stimulated by energy, produces light. Then, the energy is pumped into the crystal to excite neodymium atoms through focusing lenses to cut the material.
These are less popular than other types of laser cutters but can produce highly precise and powerful laser beams. However, they can’t cut through thicker materials, may emit dangerous fumes, and use a lot more energy than other options. They can also have higher upfront costs.
Fiber Lasers
Fiber lasers work on the same principles are fiber optic lights. The light enters a tube with reflective characteristics. The light goes down through the tube, reflecting off the glass and gaining power as a fiber laser beam.
The benefit of this is that the light is highly absorbed even in reflective metals. Additionally, fiber optics can pinpoint the laser, meaning higher precision, more detail, and smoother edges. Plus, these types of machines are also great for reducing energy consumption.
Other Science-Based Techniques Used in Laser Cutter
In addition to the general laser-cutting process and the way the lasers are generated, there are many other scientific processes going on when using a laser cutter.
Thermal Conductivity is the process that occurs when the laser meets the materials. Since metal is highly conductive to heat, the heat is dispersed away from the cut, ensuring a smoother edge.
Absorption depends on the material. Metals absorb a ton of energy from fiber lasers, helping to create faster, smoother cuts. This absorption happens because the photos of the laser interact with the electrons of the metal or other material, amplifying & accelerating the heating process.
Movement is essential to creating a swift cut while minimizing the heat-affected zone. The speed of movement depends on the laser cutter, material type, material thickness, and other factors. However, it’s important to make a continuous, smooth, and precise cut.
Applications of Laser Cutting Technology
How does laser cutting work in manufacturing? Well, there are tons of applications for laser-cutting machines.
For example, they can be used to cut larger pieces of metal for signage, construction, or manufacturing. Whether creating custom tubing, sheet metal components, or other parts, laser-cutting machines are an essential addition to many companies.
However, an advanced fiber laser cutting model can also create highly precise cuts without compromising the strength of the material. Because of this, they are used in industries where precision and strength are paramount, like medical, aerospace, and automobile materials.
Laser cutters are not just used in industrial situations either. Some laser cutting machines are used for DIY projects, engraving materials, or making precise cuts in crafts & at-home metalworking.
Conclusion
Now that you know how laser cutting works and understand laser cutting technology, you can select the best model and type for your application. Whether you want an affordable DIY CO2 laser cutter or the most powerful fiber laser cutting machine, you’ll know how it works and the importance of the components.
Accurl offers state-of-the-art laser cutting machines designed for efficiency, precision, durability, and ease of use. Tap here to learn more about our powerful machines and how they can generate a high ROI..
