From the intricate designs in jewelry to the rugged components of an aircraft, how we cut materials defines the quality of the end product. CNC and laser cutters are versatile devices that you can use for a variety of cutting and engraving applications.

While both types of equipment are commonly used in manufacturing, it is essential to understand the distinctions between them. In this article, we will compare laser cutters and CNCs to provide a clear understanding of their differences.

Comparison of Laser Cutting and Traditional CNC Machining

Laser cutting and conventional CNC machining are two common methods for precisely cutting materials. Each approach has benefits and drawbacks, and knowing how they differ may help you choose the best course of action for your project. Here are the differences between laser cutting and traditional CNC machining:

Cost Differences

The overall cost of a CNC machine or a laser cutter includes the initial investment and operating expenses.

Initial Investment

The initial cost of the machine includes the purchase price, taxes, shipping, and customs expenses. There are various options available in terms of size and price range for both CNC machines and laser cutters, allowing you to choose according to your budget.

Operating Expense

Both machines have operating costs related to electrical usage during operation. However, laser cutters have a shorter cycle time, reducing power usage. CNC machines like Wasserstrahlschneiders require additional components such as cutting tools, abrasives, nozzles, and clamps, increasing operating costs.

Laser cutters, on the other hand, do not require these additional components but have periodic expenses for laser source replacement.

CNC vs. Laser Cutter Speed

Laser cutters have a faster processing speed compared to CNC machines. They can cut through materials at almost twice the speed of a CNC machine.

However, the performance of laser cutters decreases with thicker materials, whereas CNC machines may perform better.

Equipment

CNC machines offer the versatility of using various cutting bits for different materials and cut types. Laser cutters, on the other hand, have limited flexibility and can only modify laser power, speed, and focus points.

Replacing router bits on a CNC machine is less costly than upgrading a laser cutter with a powerful laser module.

Variations in Material Capabilities

CNC machines can process non-ferrous metals, plastics, composites, wood, acrylic, and HDPE. Laser cutters can also cut and engrave on plastic, acrylic, leather, paper, foam, rubber, glass, and cloth, in addition to metals like brass, aluminum, and steel.

Laser cutters produce better cuts for softer materials like leather and foam, while CNC machines excel in cutting thick workpieces and sheet metal.

Depth of Cut

Laser cutters can produce narrow and shallow cuts, while CNC machines can perform deep cuts and 3D carving.

Laser cutters are faster for processing thin sheets of material, while CNC machines offer the advantage of working with thicker workpieces.

Cutline Thickness

Laser cutters can achieve a spot size as small as 0.001″, allowing for high precision and intricate cuts. CNC machines rely on the diameter of the cutting bit, limiting their ability to produce deep cuts.

Clamping Requirement

CNC machines like waterjet cutters require robust clamping techniques to hold the workpiece in place during machining.

Laser cutters, especially for light and flexible materials, may require clamping solutions like double-sided tape or air assist. However, firm clamping is not always necessary for laser cutting, reducing processing time.

Maintenance

CNC machines require regular cleaning and lubrication of moving components to prevent damage and maintain accuracy.

Laser cutters have a simpler design and require regular cleaning of optical components to ensure optimal laser quality.

Smoke, Dust, and Chips

CNC machining creates chips and dust that require specific tools and dust collection systems to maintain a clean work environment. However, not all CNC machines produce chips and dust. If you use a waterjet CNC cutter, you will not have to think about these.

Laser cutters produce smoke as a byproduct, which may require proper ventilation to release gases and prevent discoloration of the workpiece.

Noises

The spinning spindle of a CNC machine rotates at a high speed, resulting in a significantly louder operation, even when there is no load.

The contact between the cutting tool and the workpiece also contributes to the overall noise level during the CNC machining process. In contrast, laser cutters operate quietly, making them suitable for use in home settings.

Here is a comparison table of laser cutting vs. traditional CNC machining to help you understand the differences between them better:

When Should You Use Laser Cutters?

Lasers are widely used across various industries, with the shipbuilding, aerospace, and medical industries being the most notable. If you are involved in the following industries, you can opt for laser cutters:

Shipbuilding: The majority of materials used in shipbuilding are steel plates. Shipbuilders require precise transfer and hull segmentation, which can be achieved with the precision offered by lasers.

Luft- und Raumfahrt: The requirements in the aerospace industry are similar to those in shipbuilding. Lasers are essential for producing complex aerospace components.

Automobilindustrie: CNC lasers are used to cut and shape the numerous small components that make up a standard automobile.

Electronics: Laser cutting equipment can pierce and cut intricate sections and small components, making it ideal for electronics manufacturing.

Jewelry Creation: The accuracy of laser cutting makes it a desirable option in jewelry creation.

Fabrication: For fabricators who often require a broad cutting surface for sheet metal components, a laser cutter is an ideal choice.

Musical Instruments: While many mass producers rely on CNC lasers for quality control, musical instruments are often handcrafted using these machines.

When Should You Use CNC Machines

CNC machines offer a flexible and cost-effective cutting solution, making them widely used across various businesses and sectors. They can work with almost any metal, as well as other materials, and can manufacture almost any kind of part, component, or product imaginable.

Here are a few sectors where you can use CNC machining:

Military: The military sector requires components that can withstand harsh environments. CNC cutting is the perfect solution for this industry. Additionally, the CNC can produce replacement components updated for security or enhancement.

Oil and Gas: A safety-conscious industry like oil and gas requires essential tolerances, which the CNC machine offers.

Healthcare: CNC machines produce specialized medical parts such as surgical tools, electronic enclosures, implants, and orthotics.

Rapid Prototyping: Across all sectors, rapid prototyping is possible thanks to CNC machines.

Indirect Manufacturing Processes: CNC equipment can create metal designs for sand castings or injection molds.

Hobbyists and Part-timers: Many garages and homes have standalone knee mills and CNC tabletop mills. For personal use or as a means of earning additional income, the CNC mill is a reasonably priced and readily available tool.

Schlussfolgerung

Considering your specific needs, the choice between laser cutting and CNC machining is not a one-size-fits-all answer. Instead, it requires aligning with the requirements of your project. Laser cutting excels in thin materials and precision, making it the top choice for those applications.

On the other hand, if you require depth and versatility, CNC machining is the go-to option. By understanding and appreciating the unique strengths of each method, you can make an informed decision.