Laser Cutter Information
Light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, or laser, uses a synchronized single-wavelength radiation beam highly focused along a specific path producing a cutting effect, according to the Ameristar Laser Cutting Inc. website. Laser cutting can be used to cut anything, from simple shapes to complex forms, from various types of materials.
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The Process
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Designed to concentrate high amounts of energy into a small area, the beam is typically 0.003 to 0.006 inches in diameter when using short wavelength laser cutters, according to the website Bgpeck. Material in the defined area is vaporized or melted due to the heat energy created by the laser beam. A gas mixture, such as CO2, oxygen, helium and/or nitrogen, blows off the vaporized material, leaving a relatively clean surface and minimizing the affected heat zone of the area being cut.
Industry
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The laser cutting process is utilized more in larger industries due to increased flexibility and improvements in heat input control, accuracy and edge squareness, according to the Technology Engineering website. Computer CAD/CAM systems automate the laser cutting process and control different apparatus for more complex, three-dimensional laser cutting. This has led to laser cutting replacing other cutting techniques, such as oxy-fuel or plasma.
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Materials
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There are many types of materials that can be cut by laser beam, according to the website Ameristar Laser Cutting. Laser cutting works extremely well on stainless steel and carbon in addition to ceramics, plastics, plywood and cardboard. Some materials have an area where the material is discolored, which is called a heat-affected zone. Although laser cutting generally involves no distortion, materials with heat-affected zones may not be as susceptible to cutting by laser beam. Also, transparent materials such as glass and crystal do not lend themselves well to laser cutting.
Advantages
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When utilizing a laser cutting process, there is a narrow zone affected by the heat, so you can achieve a very fine cut, according to the EBTEC Corporation website. Also, there is no wear on the tools, you need no cutting lubricants and there is no mechanical force on the work piece.
Disadvantages
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As with any product, there are disadvantages. Laser cutting machines require assist or cover gas and there are high cost factors involved, including the initial cost of equipment and routine maintenance.There are also limitations on material thickness due to the taper involved in laser cutting, and high volume projects are not usually cost effective.
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