What Is Laser Beam Machining?

Laser machining systems precisely cut metal, plastic, and other materials.

Laser beam machining uses the energy in laser light to cut sheets of flat material, such as metal, plastic and cloth. The lasers come in a range of power levels, each suited to machine specific materials. Computer software controls where the laser does its cutting.

Power

Low-power lasers of 100 watts can cut soft materials with reasonable speed. To cut metals, lasers go to power levels as high as 2000 watts. Thick, dense materials require the most power to cut.

Materials

Most laser machining systems work on flat sheets of raw material. Lasers can cut metals such as steel, brass and aluminum. They can also cut plastic, rubber, wood, leather and cloth. In addition to cutting, lasers can etch and engrave these materials and others, including marble and glass.

Motion

An optical system on a moving frame guides the laser light, aiming it precisely at the material being machined. A computer drives the frame, its software carrying the patterns traced out by the laser. Cutting speeds can be as high as 1200 inches per minute.

References

• Beam Dynamics: Laser Power, Laser Cutting Machine, Precision Cutting
• World Class Lasers: Material Listing for Laser Cutting, Engraving and Marking
• El En Group: CO2 Laser Cutting Systems