Laser cutting systems offer results that are in most of the cases faster and more precise than traditional methods. Understanding the basics of these systems like their work process, will help you make the most of the technology as well as choose wisely among the range of laser cutting systems available out there.
What is laser cutting system?
Laser cutting system is a process of accurate cutting that offers a precise yet affordable way to produce virtually any shape in a flat sheet material. The system uses a high-powered laser beam, which is directed by CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) equipment from a CAD vector file.
How does it work?
In a laser cutting system, there is a laser tube from where the laser beam is emitted when a current pass through the tube. There is also a focal lens in the machine head, that focuses the beam onto a point in the surface of a flat sheet material, vaporising, burning or melting the material and moving around the cutting line as set in the vector file featured in the machine. This method of cutting allows an almost polished edge, so very little to no finishing is required. It will all depend on the finished purpose.
A focused cutting beam represents much less waste since the amount of material removed by the laser is very little when compared to a blade or cutting edge. While this may vary according to the material used and its thickness, but in general a focused cutting beam allows tight nesting of laser cut parts, hence reducing waste and making the most of the material.
What can it do?
Laser cutting systems can be used to cut a range of materials, from very thin paper and textiles to plywood, acrylic and metal, depending on the type of machine. Plus, this system represents an excellent way of cutting materials without exposing it to high temperatures. This means that you can cut aluminum and plastic without the risk of damaging the molecular structure of the object.
The uses and applications of laser cutting systems are virtually endless. In just one day you can be doing prototyping and testing parts in large commercial scale for customers using the laser cutting systems repeatability to create identical cuts, architectural models, etc.
Regardless of which type of laser cutting system you choose, you will be able to find a great variety of them available on the market. For helpful advice on which laser cutting system to choose, visit a local retailer to meet a professional or call or e-mail a customer support center often offered by the online retailers.
