Laser cutting

maker

Laser cutting is a technology that uses a laser to cut materials with precision and speed.

expanded

Laser cutting uses a high-powered laser beam directed through optics to cut materials such as metal, plastic, and wood. This process is known for its accuracy and ability to cut complex shapes with minimal material waste, making it invaluable in industries like manufacturing and automotive production. Parameters such as laser power, speed, and the type of assist gas are carefully controlled to achieve optimal results.

examples

A 2000 W CO2 laser cutting machine is used to cut 6 mm (0.24 in) thick carbon steel sheets.

This process is commonly employed in automotive manufacturing plants to create parts with precise tolerances and clean edges.

A 500 W fiber laser cutter processing 1.5 mm (0.06 in) thick stainless steel with a cut speed of 12 m/min (39.37 ft/min).

Used in the production of sheet metal parts in the fabrication industry, fiber laser cutting provides efficiency and minimizes thermal distortion.

related terms

Slicing (3D Printing)

The process of converting a 3D model into instructions for a 3D printer.

3D printing

The process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file by layering material.

Computer Numerical Control (CNC)

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) refers to the automated control of machining tools by means of a computer.

Stereolithography (SLA)

Stereolithography (SLA) is an additive manufacturing process that uses a laser to cure liquid resin into solid 3D objects.

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is an additive manufacturing process that builds objects layer by layer using a continuous filament of thermoplastic material.