Commercial Uses for Laser Cutters

Laser Etching

Laser cutters are quick, accurate and silent. Controlled by computer, they can cut many materials at speeds up to 500 inches per minute. They've helped to reduce costs and improve speed of manufacturing in many different applications.

Textiles

Sheets of fabric for clothing can be cut by laser. Lower-power lasers, under 100 watts, can cut these softer materials.

Sheet Metal

Cutting metal by laser creates parts with good tolerances. Some metals, besides being hard and dense, absorb laser energy less efficiently than other materials. This application calls for higher-powered lasers of over 1,000 watts.

Plastic

Rubber and plastic, being softer than metals, can be cut to greater thicknesses and with higher speeds. For some plastics, issues exist with odors and gases given off during cutting.

Wood

Lasers can engrave and cut wood in intricate, decorative shapes and patterns. Depending on the wood type, pieces up to 1 1/2 inch thick may be machined this way.

Electronics

Precision electronic components such as resistors and capacitors can be laser-trimmed. Parts made this way can meet tight tolerances and are produced with greater speed than traditional sorting methods.

References

• Materials for Laser Cutting, Engraving, and Marking
• Laser Welding, Soldering, Drilling
• Precision Metal Laser Cutting