Mechanical processing and laser cutting
Laser cutting is a non-contact process that uses lasers to cut materials, providing high quality, dimensionally accurate cuts. The laser cutting process involved in mechanical machining works by directing the laser beam through a nozzle to the workpiece. A combination of heat and pressure creates the cutting action. The material melts, burns, evaporates or is blown with a gas jet, leaving an edge with a high-quality surface finish.
Laser cutting is a high precision CNC thermal process that uses a high power laser beam to cut, melt or burn a sheet of material. It uses a focused beam of light to cut and etch sheet material to design specifications. Ideal for various types of materials (including metals, wood and polymers), it can produce complex parts without the use of a specially designed tool.
The process is suitable for both one-off jobs and low to medium volume production due to its high repeatability. Laser cutting is particularly useful for the fabrication of metals (steel, brass, aluminum or nickel). Thanks to its high precision, reliability and the smooth surfaces achieved, it has become a definite favorite in the manufacture of medical products.
Unlike CNC machining, laser cutting works with sheet material and produces shapes and forms no deeper than 10 mm (depending on material type).
Metals used for laser cutting
Laser cutting is a versatile production method and can be used to cut a variety of materials such as metals, plastics, wood, paper and textiles. When it comes to metals, it cuts better than steel, aluminum and copper. This is because steel, unlike aluminum and copper, reflects light and thermal energy, otherwise it can cause warping.
