Laser Cutting Explained: Types, Benefits & Industry Applications

Laser cutting is a process that’s widely used for an array of applications. This versatile technology utilizes a concentrated beam of light that cuts through or engraves materials quickly and precisely.

SIEME Product Page

Many industries use laser cutting. These include sheet metal fabrication, fashion and textiles, jewelry making, prototyping and rapid manufacturing, architectural models, PCB manufacturing, and electronics, to name just a few. 

Utilizing laser cutting in these industries brings a multitude of benefits. Laser cutting plays a pivotal role in improving the finished quality of products, promoting automated processes, reducing resource consumption, and boosting productivity. As laser technology advances, the applications for this in-demand technology are set to grow even further.

How Laser Cutting Works

Before we start exploring the subject of laser cutting in more detail, let’s first pause to explain how laser cutting and laser cutting processes actually work.

Laser cutting utilizes a laser beam to cut or engrave materials. This process involves the output of a high-power laser being directed through optics. The laser beam is first directed onto the material’s surface. The intense heat from the laser beam then melts, burns, or vaporizes the material along the cutting path. This results in an accurate edge with a high-quality surface finish.  

Types of Lasers

There are two types of lasers most commonly used in GCC LaserPro laser cutting, these include:

CO2 Lasers

CO2 lasers are powered by a combination of electricity and a gas mixture that contains CO2. These lasers operate at a wavelength of 10.6 micrometers, and are typically used on non-metallic materials.

Uses of CO2 lasers:

• Cutting 
• Engraving
• Marking
• Drilling
• Usually used on wood, acrylic, plastics, foam, paper, and textiles.

Fiber Lasers

Fiber lasers use optical fibers doped with rare earth elements such as erbium and neodymium to generate a laser beam. Fiber lasers operate at a wavelength of 1.064 micrometers. These high-power lasers are known for their ability to cut through thicker materials.

Uses of fiber lasers:

• Cutting
• Engraving
• Marking
• Drilling
• Usually used on metals such as stainless steel, brass, and aluminum.

Key Components of a Laser Cutting System

Now that we’ve described what a laser cutter is and the two main types of lasers used in GCC LaserPro laser cutting, it’s time to take a closer look at the workings of the laser cutter.

First, let’s examine the components used in a laser cutting system. A laser cutting system consists of the following main components:

Focusing Optics

The laser cutter’s mirrors and lenses are its focusing optics. The mirrors and lenses ensure accurate laser cutting by directing the laser beam to the precise focal point that needs to be cut or engraved.

Motion Control System

A Closed-loop DC servo motor can deliver greater continuous shaft power at higher speeds than a stepper of the same frame size. In addition, It can also give far greater accuracy due to closed-loop position feedback and the continuous movement, instead of constant stopping and starting. 

Material Handling Mechanisms

The material handling mechanisms of the laser cutter include its rotary chuck and film clamping device. These components position and move the material to ensure optimum stability and position during the laser cutting process.

Each of the above components has a crucial role to play in the highly intricate and precise process of laser cutting. 

The components work together as follows to cut materials precisely:

• First, the laser beam is produced by stimulating the lasing material within a closed container. The mirrors or fiber optics then direct the laser beam at the workpiece.
• Next, the beam makes contact with the material and heats it to either melt, vaporize, or burn (depending on the requirements of the job). 
• High-pressure gas blows away the excess material to ensure a perfectly clean finish.

Advantages of Laser Cutting

Laser cutting is a widely used technique. Laser cutting technology continually evolves at a rapid pace bringing with it exciting developments that benefit the end-user. Here are its main advantages:

Precision and Accuracy

One main advantage of laser cutting is its exceptional precision and accuracy. The focused laser beam ensures that there is minimal deviation, allowing intricate cuts to be made with perfect accuracy. This ensures that a laser cut finish is superior to other cutting techniques.

Versatility

Laser cutting is a highly versatile technique that’s employed across many different industries and is suitable for a wide range of applications. This is because laser technology can be used to cut a wide range of materials. Wood, metals, fabric, plastics, and many more materials can be cut with exceptional accuracy using laser technology.

Efficiency and Speed

As well as delivering precise cuts on a wide range of materials, laser cutting also helps to cut down on production time. The laser cutting process is incredibly fast, which results in rapid processing. The laser performs each cut by moving swiftly across the material, meaning that production time can be significantly reduced when compared to traditional cutting methods.  

When comparing laser cutting vs water jet, laser cutting often offers faster processing speeds, especially for thinner materials and precision-focused tasks, although water jet cutting may be better suited for thicker, heat-sensitive materials.

Minimal Material Wastage

Reducing material wastage is something that all businesses aim to achieve. After all, less waste means more profit and improved efficiency. The precise nature of laser cutting means material wastage is significantly reduced. This is achieved by the remarkable accuracy of laser cut technology, which eliminates the errors that can be made when using traditional cutting techniques. The narrow kerf width also ensures that far less material is lost during the cutting process. This cuts down on material wastage, making the laser cutting process a cost-effective and environmentally friendly technique.

Common Uses of Laser Cutting

Laser cutting is widely used across many industries. Due to its many advantages, including superior precision and efficiency, laser cutting is a highly versatile technology. Common uses for laser cutting are as follows:

Manufacturing and Industrial Applications

Laser cutting is a technique commonly used in sheet metal fabrication for industrial parts. The superior degree of accuracy provided by laser cutting also means that it is used in the automotive and aerospace industries where precision components are manufactured to strict tolerances.

Electronics

Laser cutting performs an essential role in PCB manufacturing where precision is required to ensure optimal device performance. In addition, laser cutting is used in the electronic industry for cutting and engraving the tiny components found in devices such as smartphones, tablets, and medical instruments.

Signage and Advertising

Laser cutting techniques are also used in the creation of custom signs used for advertising. Custom signs created using wood, metal, and acrylic can all be made using laser cutting techniques to ensure a high-quality finish.  Laser cutting is also employed in the construction of intricate components used in exhibition displays at trade shows. The level of accuracy provided by laser cutting ensures that the exhibition displays are of the highest standard and showcase the business in the best way.

Fashion and Textiles

Laser cutting is most associated with wood and metal. However, these aren’t the only materials that can be laser cut. The fashion and textile industries also use laser cutting techniques extensively. Laser cutting is used to cut fabrics to precise measurements, and to create intricate designs used on accessories, footwear, and clothing. Personalized fashion items, such as monogrammed belts and bags also utilize laser techniques.

Art and Design

Laser cutting can be used for creative purposes, such as in the art and design industry. Some artists use laser techniques to create intricate wall art, decorative objects, and even sculptures. Jewelry makers can also use laser cutting to create highly detailed pieces made from materials such as wood, metal, and acrylic.

Architecture and Construction

For the architecture and construction industry, laser cutting is an essential technique used to create scale models to precise measurements. At the other end of the construction process, laser cutting is used by interior designers to create custom features. This includes interior design elements such as screens, wall panels, and decorative shutters.

Education and Prototyping

Laser cutting is often used in academic settings in design, engineering, and architecture study programs, to provide hands-on experience to students. Laser cutting is also used in the rapid prototyping process used for product development and testing before mass production begins.

Factors to Consider in Laser Cutting

As we’ve demonstrated, laser cutting is a highly versatile and precise technique with a wide range of uses. However, it is essential to keep the following factors in mind to get optimal results from the laser cutting process:

Material Compatibility

Different materials can react in different ways when exposed to a laser. Therefore, choosing the right material is vital for successful laser cutting. 

The following considerations should be kept in mind when choosing a material:

• Absorption
• Toxicity of the fumes produced by material when being laser cut.
• Reflectivity

Ideal materials for laser cutting include:

• Wood
• Metal
• Textiles
• Acrylic
• Plastics

Material Thickness and Complexity

The thickness of the material will impact the accuracy of the laser cutting and the speed at which it’s performed. Thicker materials will require more power and be cut at slower speeds. Thinner materials can be cut faster but require more control. 

The complexity of the designs that will be cut will also impact the accuracy of the cutting. To allow for this, extra time may be required to set up and make adjustments during the cutting process.

Machine Settings and Maintenance

Achieving quality laser cuts requires careful adjustment of the machine’s power and speed settings, ensuring that the focus is correctly positioned, and using gas assist to blow away any molten materials.

Ensuring proper cleaning and maintenance is also vital. This involves cleaning the cutting bed, lenses, aligning optics, and mirrors regularly. The machine should also be regularly inspected for signs of wear. Consumables and cooling systems should be monitored and replaced when needed.

Regular machine calibration and maintenance are especially critical for ensuring reliable laser cutting services, particularly in high-volume or high-precision production environments.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Fiber Laser Cutting Machine in Construction and Decoration Industry.

Laser Cut Machines Recommendations

Which of our GCC laser cut machines is right for you? Compare our different models below to help you find the perfect match for your needs:

X252 Laser Cutter

The GCC LaserPro X252 offers an economical alternative for laser cutting and engraving. It is equipped with a dependable sealed CO2 laser, providing a reliable source of 80W and 100W power suitable for mass production requirements.

Specifications:

- Working Area: 635 x 458 mm (25 x 18 in.)

- Z-axis: 165 mm (6.5 in.)

- Wattage: 80W~100W

- Speed: 40 IPS

Reasons to Buy:

• Economical equipment, suitable for beginners.
• Closed-loop DC servo control for precise and rapid movement of the lens carriage.
• Pass-through doors to accommodate oversized objects.

X380 Laser Cutter

The GCC LaserPro X380 is equipped with a dependable sealed CO2 laser, providing a reliable source of laser power for mass production. It features numerous innovative and user-friendly characteristics, giving users an edge over others.

Specifications:

- Working Area: 960 x 610 mm (38 x 24 in.)

- Z-axis: 165 mm (6.5 in.)

- Wattage: 80W~100W

- Speed: 40 IPS

Reasons to Buy:

• Reliable DC CO2 glass laser tube makes it an economical choice.
• Closed-loop DC servo control for precise and rapid movement of the lens carriage.
• Pass-through doors to accommodate oversized objects.

FMC 280 Laser Cutter

The GCC LaserPro FMC 280 is a compact, high-power fiber laser cutting and engraving system. It delivers easy operation and produces spectacular cutting edges. Engineered for performance, it is ideal for achieving excellent output quality.

Specifications:

- Working Area: 712 x 370 mm (28 x 14.5 in.)

- Z-axis: 120 mm (4.7 in.)

- Wattage: 1.5kW peak power

- Speed: 20 IPS

Reasons to Buy:

• State-of-the-art fiber laser technology cuts up to 3mm thick stainless steel.
• Achieves 256 level grayscale, vivid image engraving.
• Compact and robust design saves workshop space.
• Multiple optional items such as Rotary Chuck to meet various needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Cutting

What materials can be laser cut?

Common materials include wood, metal, acrylic, plastic, textiles, and even certain ceramics. The laser type (CO2 or fiber) determines material compatibility.

Is laser cutting expensive?

While initial setup costs can be high, laser cutting is cost-effective long term due to speed, precision, and minimal waste.

What is the difference between CO2 and fiber lasers?

CO2 lasers are ideal for non-metals like wood or acrylic, while fiber lasers excel at cutting metals due to higher power density.

Laser cutting has become an increasingly popular method for cutting materials such as metal, plastic, wood, and glass. A wide variety of industries, including the automotive and medical device sectors, use laser cutting because it offers a high degree of accuracy and precision. Each of these industries has different requirements and uses laser cutting in different ways. The automotive industry, for example, uses laser cutting to manufacture car parts and precision components. The medical device industry creates medical devices and implants with laser cutting.

The following article will discuss the eight laser-cutting uses and their importance:

1. Automotive Industry and Laser Cutting

The automotive industry has embraced the advantages offered by laser cutting to produce a range of components. Tolerances in the automotive industry are extremely tight, and laser cutting is well-suited to meet them. Laser cutting’s flexibility and capability to create complex shapes and designs make it a popular technology for producing car parts. In the past, car parts were created with stamping and die-cutting methods. However, these methods are not as accurate, nor can they create complex shapes and designs like laser cutting. The automotive industry primarily uses fiber lasers for cutting sheet metal due to their speed, precision, and ability to handle reflective materials like aluminum and stainless steel. Materials that are laser cut in the automotive industry include, but are not limited to, car parts, components, die-castings, forgings, and stampings.

2. Medical Device Industry and Laser Cutting

The medical device industry utilizes laser cutting to produce a variety of products, including pacemakers, stents, and catheters. The laser beam melts, vaporizes, or burns away the material, leaving a clean, precise cut. Laser cutting is often used to create products with intricate designs, such as those intended for use within the human body. The type of laser cutting used will depend on the material being cut and the desired final product. For example, some medical devices are made from stainless steel, which is typically cut using fiber or ultrafast lasers for improved precision and reduced heat-affected zones. Other materials, such as plastics, can be cut with a fiber laser.

3. Jewelry Industry and Laser Cutting

The jewelry industry is one of the most ancient industries in the world, with a long and rich history. In recent years, however, it has undergone a major transformation, thanks to the advent of laser-cutting technology. While traditional methods of jewelry making relied on manual labor and simple tools, laser cutting has allowed for a much more precise and intricate level of design. As a result, jewelry made with laser cutting is often more intricate than its traditional counterpart. Laser cutting in the jewelry industry is typically used to create detailed patterns and designs in metal, as well as to cut gemstones. It can also be used to engrave text or images onto jewelry pieces. Jewelry products that are commonly made with laser cutting include rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets. The use of laser cutting in the jewelry industry has revolutionized the way that jewelry is made and has allowed for a whole new level of creativity and design.

4. Ceramic Manufacturing and Laser Cutting

Ceramic manufacturing is the process of shaping and firing ceramic materials to create products. Ceramics can be made from clay, glass, metal, or synthetic materials. Laser cutting can be used in the ceramic manufacturing process to create precise shapes and designs in the material. This type of cutting is often used to create intricate patterns and decorative elements in products. Common examples of products made with laser cutting include tiles, pottery, and sculptures. In ceramic manufacturing, ultrafast lasers such as femtosecond lasers are often preferred for technical ceramics due to their precision and minimal thermal damage, though CO₂ lasers can be used for softer ceramics or decorative applications. This method offers high precision and supports the creation of complex designs. CO₂ laser cutting is also relatively fast, making it ideal for use in the ceramic manufacturing process.

5. Silicon Industry and Laser Cutting

When it comes to the silicon industry, laser cutting is a vital process. Silicon manufacturing refers to the production of silicon wafers—thin discs of semiconductor material that are used in the fabrication of various electronic devices. The silicon industry typically uses ultrafast or solid-state lasers (e.g., femtosecond or Nd:YAG lasers) for precision dicing and patterning of silicon wafers. It is used to create the small-scale features found on silicon wafers. There are a variety of different products that are produced in the silicon industry, including integrated circuits, solar cells, and semiconductor chips. CO₂ laser cutting is used to create intricate patterns on these products, which are then used in a variety of electronic devices.

6. Packaging Industry and Laser Cutting

Packaging refers to the process of enclosing products or items for protection and handling. Laser cutting is utilized in the packaging industry to create various packaging products, such as boxes, containers, and lids. Two main types of laser-cutting technology are used in this industry: fiber lasers and CO₂ lasers. CO₂ lasers are typically utilized to cut cardboard, paper, and thin plastics. Fiber lasers are more commonly used for cutting metals and are less typical in packaging; CO₂ lasers remain the standard for cutting paper, cardboard, and thin plastics.

7. Metalworking Industry and Laser Cutting

Metalworking is the process of shaping and forming metal into desired shapes using various tools. Laser cutting is often employed in the metalworking industry to cut metal into desired shapes. Some common products that are produced are: beams, columns, pipes, tubing, and sheet metal. These products can be used in a variety of industries, such as construction, automotive, and aerospace.

8. Woodworking Industry and Laser Cutting

The woodworking industry is a sector of the manufacturing industry that produces wood products. These products can be used for construction, furniture making, or other purposes. Laser-cutting technology is often utilized in this industry to create precise and intricate designs in wood. Some commonly produced items are: furniture, cabinets, and decorative items. The type of laser cutting used in the woodworking industry is typically a CO₂ laser. This type of laser uses a beam of infrared light to cut through wood. The CO₂ laser can create very complicated designs due to the high level of precision that it offers.

What Is the Importance of Using Laser Cutting?

The importance of laser cutting lies in its highly accurate and consistent method of cutting a wide variety of materials, including but not limited to sheet metal. It is also an effective alternative to traditional etching for certain applications, particularly where precision and repeatability are required. Laser cutting has several advantages over other methods of sheet metal cutting, including:

1. Higher level of precision
2. Ability to cut complex designs
3. Cost-effectiveness
4. Less workpiece contamination
5. Less human error
6. Uses less energy

For these reasons, laser cutting is now the preferred method of sheet metal cutting for many applications.

What Are the Best Laser Cutting Machines?

Below are the best laser-cutting machines available on the market today:

1. Epilog Zing 16 30-Watt CO₂ Laser: The Epilog Zing 16 is a compact CO₂ laser cutting machine with a maximum material height capacity of 4.5 inches, but it can typically cut through materials up to about 0.25 inches thick in a single pass, depending on the material.
2. Trotec Speedy 300 30-Watt CO₂ Laser: The Trotec Speedy 300 is another powerful laser cutter that can handle materials up to 0.5 inches thick.
3. Full Spectrum Hobby Series 20-Watt CO₂ Laser: The Full Spectrum Hobby Series is a great option for those who need a powerful laser cutter but don’t need a large cutting area. It can cut through materials up to 0.25 inches thick.

How Does Laser Cutting Differ for Different Materials?

Laser cutting differs for different materials in that each material has different physical and chemical properties that require different laser settings and processes. For example, metals are generally good reflectors of light, so they require higher-power lasers and special cutting techniques. Plastics, on the other hand, can be cut with lower-power lasers, but the edges of the cut can be very jagged and require post-processing. Glass is a transparent material, so it can be more difficult to cut with a laser. Special techniques, such as using a lens to focus the laser beam, are required to cut glass cleanly.

What Materials Can Be Laser Cut?

There are several materials that can be laser cut, including metal, plastic, and glass. However, the materials that can be laser cut depend on the type of laser used. For example, some laser cutters can only cut certain materials, while others can cut a wide variety of materials. If a CO₂ laser cutter is used, a variety of materials can be cut, including wood, plastic, glass, and metal. A fiber laser cutter, on the other hand, can cut stainless steel, aluminum, and brass. If you are unsure about what type of laser cutter you have or what materials it can cut, consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer.

What Materials Cannot Be Laser Cut?

The materials that cannot be laser cut are: highly reflective materials, such as mirrors, thin materials that can easily warp or melt, and materials that are dangerous to cut, such as asbestos or explosives.

Is It Easier To Laser Cut Metal Than Plastic?

No, in general, it is easier to laser-cut plastic than metal. Plastics absorb CO₂ laser energy more efficiently and melt or vaporize at lower temperatures. Metals, especially reflective ones like aluminum or copper, require higher laser power and often specialized equipment, such as fiber lasers, to cut effectively.

Summary

This article presented the eight different laser cutting uses, explained what they are, and discussed the importance of each. To learn more about the uses of laser cutting, contact a Xometry representative.

Xometry provides a wide range of manufacturing capabilities, including sheet cutting and other value-added services for all of your prototyping and production needs. Visit our website to learn more or to request a free, no-obligation quote.

Disclaimer

The content appearing on this webpage is for informational purposes only. Xometry makes no representation or warranty of any kind, be it expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or validity of the information. Any performance parameters, geometric tolerances, specific design features, quality and types of materials, or processes should not be inferred to represent what will be delivered by third-party suppliers or manufacturers through Xometry’s network. Buyers seeking quotes for parts are responsible for defining the specific requirements for those parts. Please refer to our terms and conditions for more information.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Fiber Laser Cutting Machine in Rail Transportation Industry.