Laser cutters have become the go-to tool for precision cutting and engraving in many industries. These versatile machines use laser technology to produce clean and intricate cuts on a wide range of materials.

However, choosing the right one can be difficult with so many different types of laser cutters on the market. In this article, we will look at the various types of laser cutters and provide tips on how to select the best laser cutter for your needs.

Common Laser Cutter Types

Various industries use laser cutters for cutting and engraving materials with precision. There are four common types of laser cutters: CO2 laser cutter, fiber laser cutter, direct diode laser, and Nd:YAG/Nd:YVO laser. Each type has its own unique features and applications. Let’s explore them in detail.

1. CO2 Laser Cutter

CO2 laser cutters generate light beams by energizing a gas mixture within a tube. This mixture typically consists of helium, hydrogen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. The tube has two mirrors at each end, one fully reflective and the other partially reflective. CO2 lasers emit invisible light in the far infrared portion of the light spectrum.

CO2 lasers are commonly used for cutting materials such as paper, wood, acrylic polymers, leather, cloth, and even food products. While they can work with certain metals, CO2 lasers are more efficient for non-metallic materials.

They can cut thin sheets of non-ferrous metals like aluminum, but caution must be exercised when increasing the oxygen concentration for improved cutting power.

2. Fiber Laser Cutter

Fiber laser cutters are popular for their speed and efficiency. These machines use banks of diodes that are “fibered” together to produce a powerful laser beam. The light from the diodes is transmitted through fiber-optic cables, maintaining its quality and power.

Compared to CO2 lasers, fiber laser cutters offer faster and more effective cutting, even at depths of less than 5 mm. They require minimal maintenance and have an extended operating life. Fiber lasers can produce continuous intense beams and have output levels up to 100 times higher than CO2 lasers.

3. Direct Diode Lasers

Direct diode lasers use single semiconductor junctions to produce laser light. These lasers are gaining popularity in industrial applications like surface treatment, welding, and cutting. Direct diode lasers have lower operating costs and are energy-efficient due to their high conversion of electrical energy into laser light.

Their cutting rates are often slower than those of fiber or CO2 laser-based systems when dealing with thicker materials. Direct diode lasers can cut a wide range of materials, including metals, polymers, composites, and certain non-metallic materials.

They are particularly useful in automotive, electronics, and sheet metal manufacturing because they can cut or weld thin metal sheets at high speeds. Direct diode lasers have a simple and durable construction, resulting in a longer operating life and reduced maintenance needs. They are also more suitable for mobile applications and require less auxiliary equipment.

4. Nd:YAG/Nd:YVO Lasers

Nd:YAG/Nd:YVO lasers use crystals, such as neodymium-doped yttrium ortho-vanadate (YVO4) or yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG), to generate high cutting power. These lasers are popular for their precision and versatility.

Nd:YAG/Nd:YVO lasers can cut plastics, non-metals, coated and uncoated metals, and even some ceramics. With the addition of specific crystals, their output can be frequency-shifted to produce green, blue, or even UV light.

These lasers have a relatively high purchase price and limited lifespan, but they offer exceptional cutting capabilities for a wide range of materials.

How To Choose The Right Laser Cutter?

At アイブイシーエヌシー, we understand that selecting the right laser cutter can be confusing. We want to ensure that you make an informed decision, avoiding any potential setbacks or inefficiencies with your laser cutter. Here are some key considerations to help you choose the perfect laser cutter.

Functionality

Before making a purchase, it is crucial to determine the purpose of your laser cutter. Laser cutters are primarily used for engraving and cutting, so understanding your specific requirements will help you narrow down your options. Different types of lasers are suitable for different materials.

For example, CO2 lasers are perfect for cutting non-metals like acrylic, wood, and paper, while fiber lasers are more effective for cutting metals like stainless steel or aluminum. It is also essential to consider the thickness of the materials you will be working with, as this may require a larger laser power range.

Budget

Setting a budget is essential when purchasing a laser cutter. Apart from the initial purchase price, you should also consider the ongoing costs such as maintenance, consumables, and electricity.

It is important to think about the long-term implications of your purchase, including the impact of labor costs and the potential for automation. Thus, investing in a laser cutter with automation features can help reduce labor costs in the long run. Also, it will improve the overall efficiency of your operation.

Laser Strength

The power of the laser has a direct impact on the speed and thickness capacity of the machine. Higher laser power allows for faster cutting through thicker materials, but it also costs more.

Finding a balance between power and workload is important to ensure profitability and efficiency. However, choosing an overpowering machine for a small workload can negatively impact the profitability of other tasks.

Speed/Output

Consider the manufacturing quantities and turnaround times you expect to have. Suppose you require high-speed cutting for industrial-scale operations.

In this case, fiber lasers are generally faster than CO2 lasers when cutting metals. However, it is important to note that fiber lasers typically have a higher initial cost.

Accuracy and Beam Quality

Beam quality becomes a critical consideration if your workload involves precise cutting of fine details.

Fiber lasers generally provide smoother engraving and finer cuts compared to CO2 lasers due to their superior beam quality. Consider the level of precision you need for your projects and choose a laser cutter accordingly.

Cooling and Exhaust Systems

Proper exhaust systems and cooling/dross clearing (air blast) are essential for safe and efficient operation.

Ensure the equipment is set up to remove fumes and debris during the cutting or engraving process.

Support

Assess the machine’s access to technical help and maintenance. Ensure that the supplier or manufacturer offers reliable support, such as availability of replacement parts, training, and troubleshooting assistance.

Over time, a low purchase price with no on-site assistance and limited technical support is likely to become a burden on operations.

結論

Laser cutters come in various types, each with its own strengths and applications. Choosing the right laser cutter can significantly impact the quality and efficiency of your cutting and engraving projects. By considering the factors above, you can make an informed decision.

Selecting the right laser cutting machine, such as a CO2 laser cutter, fiber laser cutter, or diode laser cutter, will allow you to unleash your creativity and achieve precise results.