Fiber lasers have the advantages of high precision, efficiency, and versatility, and are widely used in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and packaging. So, what materials can fiber lasers cut?
Metal Materials
1.Stainless Steel
Fiber laser cutting excels in processing stainless steel, achieving remarkable cutting depths of up to 0.75 inches with 95% efficiency. The precision of fiber laser technology makes it the preferred choice for automotive components and medical equipment manufacturing.
2.Carbon Steel
When cutting carbon steel with fiber lasers, the process varies based on material thickness. Thin sheets benefit from nitrogen-assisted laser cutting, ensuring oxidation-free edges, while thick sheets utilize oxygen-assisted cutting for optimal results. This versatility in cutting methods makes fiber laser technology particularly valuable in construction projects and heavy machinery manufacturing, where precision and edge quality are crucial.
3.Mild Steel
Modern fiber laser systems can efficiently cut mild steel up to 0.6 inches thick while maintaining exceptional edge quality. The cutting process produces minimal heat-affected zones, resulting in superior finished products. This capability has made laser cutting the go-to choice for fabricators working with mild steel in structural applications and general manufacturing.
4.Aluminum & Alloys
Cutting aluminum and its alloys requires specialized fiber laser technology incorporating reflection absorption systems. The process typically employs nitrogen or compressed air as assist gases to achieve optimal results. This advanced cutting technique has revolutionized aerospace manufacturing, enabling precise fabrication of lightweight components with complex geometries.
5.Copper
The high reflectivity of copper presents unique challenges in laser cutting operations. Advanced fiber laser systems overcome this through precise power control and specialized assist gases like nitrogen or oxygen. The resulting precision makes this method invaluable in electrical component manufacturing, particularly for complex circuit elements and power distribution systems.
6.Brass
Processing brass requires high-power fiber lasers working in conjunction with nitrogen assist gas, enabling stable and precise cutting operations. This combination proves particularly effective for creating intricate decorative items and detailed architectural elements. The laser cutting process preserves the material’s distinctive finish while achieving clean, precise edges.
7.Titanium
Fiber laser technology enables precise cutting of titanium alloys up to 10mm thick without producing burrs, maintaining the material’s structural integrity throughout the process. This capability is crucial in aerospace and medical device manufacturing, where material purity and exact specifications are paramount.
8.Nickel Alloys
The precision cutting capabilities of fiber lasers make them ideal for processing highly corrosion-resistant nickel alloys. This advanced cutting method delivers exceptional accuracy in the energy sector and aerospace industries, where complex components require precise machining while maintaining material properties.
9.Galvanized Steel
Laser cutting of galvanized steel achieves depths of up to 0.5 inches with 88% efficiency. The process preserves the protective zinc coating while ensuring precise cuts, making it essential for automotive components and construction elements where corrosion resistance is crucial.
Non-Metal Materials
10.POM (Polyoxymethylene)
Fiber laser cutting of POM delivers exceptional precision for gear manufacturing and medical device components. The process produces remarkably smooth edges, crucial for mechanical applications where precision and surface finish are essential. The controlled laser cutting environment prevents material degradation while ensuring dimensional accuracy.
11.Acrylic (PMMA)
Low-power laser cutting of acrylic results in optically clear, polished edges that require no additional finishing. This capability makes fiber lasers particularly valuable in display manufacturing and architectural applications where aesthetic quality is paramount.
12.Paper & Cardboard
The precision of laser cutting enables intricate pattern creation in paper and cardboard materials at high speeds. This technology has transformed packaging design and handicraft production, allowing for complex cuts that would be impossible with traditional methods.
13.Leather
Advanced fiber laser systems achieve precise leather cutting without burning or scorching the material. This technology has revolutionized footwear and furniture manufacturing, enabling complex patterns while maintaining material integrity and reducing waste.
14.Cloth
Laser cutting technology expertly handles various textile materials while preventing common issues like melting or fraying. The precision of the cutting process ensures clean edges and accurate patterns, essential for high-end fashion manufacturing.
15.Rubber (Chlorine-Free)
Fiber laser cutting of chlorine-free rubber materials ensures precise results while maintaining safety standards. The process requires careful material selection to avoid harmful emissions, making it suitable for specialized industrial applications.
16.Cork
Laser cutting technology provides precise processing of cork materials, ideal for decorative applications and acoustic panel manufacturing. The cutting process maintains material integrity while achieving clean edges essential for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
17.Wood
The fiber laser cutting of wood requires precise control of power settings based on the material’s oil content. This technology excels in processing plywood and MDF, creating clean cuts while minimizing charring and burning effects.
18.Glass
High-speed laser cutting of glass demands specialized techniques to manage reflection issues. The process ensures stable cutting while maintaining material integrity, crucial for precision applications in electronics and architectural elements.
Other Materials
19.Magnet Sheet
Fiber laser technology enables precise cutting of magnetic sheets for electronics and industrial labeling applications. The process maintains magnetic properties while achieving clean edges, essential for specialized electronic components.
20.Foam Materials (e.g., EVA, Polyurethane)
The precision of laser cutting technology allows for accurate processing of foam materials like EVA and polyurethane. This capability is crucial for creating custom packaging solutions and soundproofing elements, where controlled thickness and clean edges are essential.
