In-depth Analysis of Laser Cutting Technology: From Principles to Precision Manufacturing Applications

In modern industrial manufacturing, the pursuit of precision, speed, and flexibility has driven continuous technological innovation. Laser cutting, as a high-energy beam processing technology, has become an indispensable part of the processing of both metallic and non-metallic materials due to its unparalleled advantages. This article will delve into the working principles, core technology types, applicable materials, and specific applications of laser cutting in various industrial fields, providing you with a comprehensive technical guide.

What is Laser Cutting? — An Art of Light and Thermal Energy

Laser cutting utilizes a high-power-density laser beam to irradiate the workpiece, causing the irradiated material to rapidly melt, vaporize, ablate, or reach its ignition point. Simultaneously, a high-speed gas flow coaxial with the beam removes the molten material, thus achieving a precision cutting method. It is essentially a thermal separation process, but due to the highly concentrated energy of the laser beam, its heat-affected zone is very small, resulting in extremely smooth and precise cutting edges.

Characteristics | Description | Value to Manufacturing

High Precision | Cutting accuracy up to ±0.1mm, with even higher repeatability. | Capable of manufacturing complex parts with extremely high tolerance requirements.

High Speed: For thin sheet metals, cutting speeds far exceed traditional mechanical cutting. Significantly improves production efficiency and shortens delivery cycles.

Non-Contact Processing: The laser head has no physical contact with the workpiece, avoiding surface scratches. Protects the surface finish of materials, especially suitable for decorative materials.

High Flexibility: No molds are needed; any shape can be quickly cut using CAD/CAM software. This greatly reduces the cost and time of prototyping and small-batch production.

Mainstream Laser Cutting Technologies: CO2 Laser vs. Fiber Laser

Choosing the right laser is key to achieving efficient and high-quality cutting. Currently, the most mainstream lasers in industrial applications are CO2 lasers and fiber lasers.

CO2 Laser: As a mature gas laser technology, CO2 lasers perform excellently in cutting non-metallic materials (such as acrylic, wood, and leather) and thick steel plates. Its wavelength is 10.6μm, with excellent absorption for non-metallic materials.

Fiber Laser: In recent years, fiber laser technology has developed rapidly and has become the mainstream in metal processing. With a wavelength of 1.06μm, it is more easily absorbed by metallic materials, especially when cutting thin plates (such as stainless steel, brass, and aluminum). Its cutting speed and electro-optical conversion efficiency are far superior to CO2 lasers, and its maintenance costs are lower.

Wide Selection of Laser Cutting Materials

Theoretically, any material that can effectively absorb laser energy can be laser-cut. The following are common laser-cutting materials:

Metallic Materials:

Carbon Steel: The most widely used material. Oxygen can be used as an auxiliary gas to improve cutting efficiency through an exothermic oxidation reaction.

Stainless Steel: Nitrogen is typically used as a protective gas to prevent oxidation of the cut edge and ensure corrosion resistance.

Non-ferrous Metals: Highly reflective materials such as aluminum, brass, and copper have higher absorption rates with fiber lasers, making them ideal processing tools.

Non-metallic Materials:

Plastics and Polymers: Acrylic (PMMA), ABS, PET, etc., produce smooth cuts.

Wood and Paper: Widely used in the crafts and packaging industries.

Textiles and Leather: Enables burr-free, high-precision cutting.

Conclusion: A Powerful Engine Driving Precision Manufacturing

Laser cutting technology, with its high precision, efficiency, and flexibility, is profoundly changing the landscape of manufacturing. From precision aerospace components to tiny parts in consumer electronics, and even personalized artistic creations, laser cutting demonstrates its powerful capabilities. Choosing a partner like Kailai, with its advanced fiber laser cutting equipment and extensive experience, means you'll receive stable, efficient, and cost-effective parts manufacturing solutions, providing a solid guarantee for your project's success.