Know your laser cutting machine – Which is the best option for you?
Laser-cutting machines have brought revolutionary change in several industries. The cutting-edge technology paired with efficient and fast results makes these machines a great choice for quick functionality. The change has helped in making the production process better.
However, it is very important to ensure that the machine you purchase is the right one for you. It is crucial to make the right choice because this is a major investment for your business. You’ll have to ensure that the investment you make is worth it.
Let us discuss these laser-cutting machines in detail to understand them better.
What Are Laser Cutting Machines?
A laser cutting machine is a CNC machine that is used in a wide range of industries for precision cutting. The machine operates using a high-powered laser beam that
helps in cutting or drawing precision designs on materials like steel, plastic, wood, and more.
These laser-cutting machines are generally classified into three different types depending on their technology. These are classified as:
- CO2 Laser Cutting Machines
- Crystal Laser Cutting Machine
- Fiber Laser Cutting Machine
CO2 Laser Cutting Machines
CO2 laser cutting machines use an electrically driven gas laser to cut the material they are working on. The machine works by combining electricity and gas in the chamber together. This leads to the formation of thin light that is then used to cut various materials.
Further, there are two mirrors set up at the end of the light portal. One mirror is reflective in nature whereas the other let some light pass through. These mirrors help in guiding the laser beam into the material that we have to cut. The light produced is powerful as compared to normal light.
The mirrors help in building up the intensity of the light and it only passes through the partially reflective mirror when it is bright. The heat from the light allows the CNC machines to leave a smooth, clean cut on the material we are cutting.
At OmniCNC, our CO2 laser cutting machines come with an air assist. This air assist removes the combustible gasses and heat from the cutting surface. The laser power ranges from 60W to 150W with a working speed of 600mm/s, and are the best for sheet metals.
Crystal Laser Cutting Machine
While CO2 laser cutting machines are common, another CNC machine that is effective is a crystal laser cutting machine. Operating using electricity, this machine cuts through the hardest of materials using a beam produced by various crystals.
A crystal laser cutter uses crystals like neodymium-doped yttrium orthovanadate and neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet. These crystals help in generating a powerful beam of light with a shorter wavelength (compared to CO2) which makes it best for cutting strong and thick materials.
However, there is a drawback to crystal laser cutters. Since the wavelength of the laser beam is shorter, it is very powerful. The higher power in return leads to frequent breakdowns which can affect the production process.
Hence, purchasing this machine solely depends on the usage and the industry. The laser can be used to cut wood, plastics, metals, and certain ceramics.
Fiber Laser Cutting Machine
A fiber laser cutting machine uses active optical fibers to form a laser beam and transport it to the cutting head. It is a solid-state laser that is used to melt and pierce metals to get precise & efficient cuts.
In fiber laser cutters, a laser diode emits light that is sent to a fiber optic cable that amplifies the intensity. When this laser beam hits a surface we are working with, the light is absorbed and gets converted into heat. This heat melts the surface and gives clean, precise cuts.
The digits are entered in the system and the computerized system in the CNC works according to the cutting data. The first point of impact of the laser should be held in the position for a longer time to pierce through. Simultaneously, the debris is cleared by a high-pressure air outlet.
A fiber laser cutter is a newer technology and requires lesser replacements. The expense of maintenance is less, and they are easy to operate. These cutters can be used for a wide range of materials, however, you have to be careful when operating on silver.
At OmniCNC, we have a wide range of fiber laser cutting machines available on sale. The power ranges from 1000W to 6000W. The machine comes with the optional choice of autofocus and high-grade Raycus laser generators and optics.
Conclusion
While the technology of laser cutting machines is improving with every passing day, the usage is industry-centric. No matter which laser-cutting machine you opt for, the crucial thing is to buy one that fits your industry needs. It is important for you to study every type of laser-cutting machine before you proceed with your purchase.
There are certain factors that you need to consider like price, technology, industry relevance, cost of operation, and more. Every cutting machine that we offer at OmniCNC is a class-leading machine with the latest technology. Almost all of our laser cutting machines can cut through hard and soft materials of all types.
To know more about our wide range of products, you can visit our website or get in touch with our experts. Our team can guide you through the process of purchasing the right machine for your business.
