Laser cutting machines have revolutionized the manufacturing industry, allowing more precise work to be delivered in seconds. These are categorized under Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) machines, as they take commands from drawings that have been digitized and translated into a computer language. After rendering the program, all a designer needs to do is send the command to the cutter machine to recreate any design of their choice and create as many products as needed.

How to use a laser cutting machine – An overview
Laser-cutting machines rely on a strong, consistent, and adjustable light source that is focused to a fine point. This produces intense heat capable of piercing through materials. The laser is mounted on a gantry system, which allows it to move with precision, even along curves and angles.

This laser is used for cutting various materials such as paper, wood, metal, rock, plastic, fabric, foam, glass, and ceramics. But, it is important to note that not all lasers are strong enough to cut through all types of metal. Generally, laser cutters are considered ideal for cutting through thin metal sheets with thicknesses of around 6 mm (aluminum) and 15 mm (steel), with a tolerance of 0.2 to 0.1 mm.

The main types of laser cutting machines

1. CO2 lasers
   These machines amplify lasers by a gas discharge containing a combination of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen, xenon, and helium. They are the oldest and most popular types of lasers.
2. Crystal lasers (ruby, Nd, and Nd-YAG)
   These machines use synthetic crystals to emit and amplify the laser light. A standout feature of these lasers is that they can produce both a continuous and a pulsed beam.
3. Fiber lasers
   These machines use optical fibers to amplify the laser light, which is strong enough to melt stainless steel up to 1 cm thick. This is accompanied by an airflow system that pushes away the molten metal and ensures a smooth, clean cut.

Features of laser cutting machines
Laser-cutting machines have taken the manufacturing industry by storm and for all the right reasons. They come with some of the most noteworthy features that make them stand out against their competitors.

1. Accuracy
   Compared to other cutting methods, laser cutting machines offer the highest accuracy rates because they precisely focus light onto a thin diameter.
2. Speed
   Another important feature of laser cutting machines is their ability to deliver quick results. These machines can cut through 3 meters of material per minute, making them ideal for quick and efficient assembly lines.
3. Versatility
   Laser cutting machines can be used on various materials to cut various designs and patterns, making them an extremely versatile choice for organizations.
4. Customization
   Since laser cutting machines work on a computerized program, it is easy to change or customize the cutting process to achieve the desired shapes/designs/angles.
5. Automation
   Laser cutting machines do not need to be moved manually—this task is completely automated via modern CNC systems, improving their precision and delivery time.
6. Waste reduction
   Thanks to their precise cutting methods, laser cutting machines cut out rather tiny pieces from the working material, helping reduce wastage and minimizing losses.
7. No material dust
   Unlike sawing and other cutting methods, laser cutting produces no material dust, ensuring a cleaner and safer working environment for others.

Applications of laser cutting machines
Laser-cutting machines are widely used in various industries today.

1. Automotive
   Laser cutters are used in the automotive industry to cut sheet metal for exhaust systems, frame suspensions, body panels for aerodynamic enhancements, engine components, and more.
2. Aerospace
   Precision is crucial in the aerospace industry. From the engineering processes down to the construction, the industry makes heavy use of lightweight, high-strength materials. Laser cutting helps achieve the right finish on these so they can be applied to the frame, turbine blades, and other components.
3. Manufacturing
   Assembly lines in factories always require quick and reliable machines, and laser cutters are perfect for the job. As a result, they are commonly used in metalworking workshops, textile mills, plastic parts production, etc.
4. Electronics
   The electronics industry is constantly pushing the envelope to develop smaller/slimmer devices that meet consumers’ requirements. Thus, there is a heavy reliance on laser cutting machines to ensure precision when cutting intricate components and parts for television sets, smartphones, laptops, etc.
5. Advertising
   In the advertising industry, aesthetics are paramount. Laser cutting machines play an important role in achieving smooth edges on cutouts, signage, brand logos, and other materials.

Apart from the above-listed industries, laser cutting machines are also extensively used in fields like jewelry making, textiles and fashion, shipbuilding, heavy equipment manufacturing, packaging, and even the production of healthcare and surgical equipment.