The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Regarding Sheet Metal Laser Cutting
1.What are the main type of sheet metal laser cutting?
Sheet metal laser cutting is a process that uses a high-powered laser beam to cut sheet metal into various shapes and patterns. There are two main types of lasers used for sheet metal laser cutting: CO2 lasers and fiber lasers1. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the application and the material.
CO2 lasers are a common type of laser used in sheet metal cutting. They use a gas mixture of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and helium to generate a laser beam with a wavelength of 10.6 micrometers. CO2 lasers are suitable for cutting thick and non-reflective metals, such as mild steel, stainless steel, and titanium. They have a high power output and a low operating cost. However, they also have a low efficiency and a large footprint. They require a complex optical system and a water cooling system to operate2.
Fiber lasers are a newer type of laser used in sheet metal cutting. They use a solid-state laser source that consists of a fiber optic cable doped with rare-earth elements, such as ytterbium, erbium, or thulium. The fiber optic cable acts as both the laser medium and the delivery system, eliminating the need for mirrors and lenses. Fiber lasers have a wavelength of 1.06 micrometers, which allows them to cut thin and reflective metals, such as aluminum, brass, and copper. They have a high efficiency and a small footprint. They are easy to maintain and have a long lifespan. However, they also have a high initial cost and a lower power output than CO2 lasers2.
If you want to learn more about sheet metal laser cutting, you can check out these resources:
●Laser Cutting Sheet Metal: The Comprehensive Guide - Baison
●A Comprehensive Guide to Sheet Metal Laser Cutting | Xometry
●Laser Cutting – SheetMetal.Me
2.Why lasers are used for sheet metal laser cutting?
Lasers are used for sheet metal laser cutting because they offer several advantages over other cutting methods, such as:
High precision and accuracy: The laser beam can cut intricate shapes and patterns with tight tolerances and minimal heat-affected zone.
High speed and efficiency: The laser beam can cut through sheet metal quickly and cleanly, reducing the need for secondary operations and material waste.
High versatility and flexibility: The laser beam can cut various types of sheet metal, including reflective and non-reflective metals, with different thicknesses and shapes.
If you want to learn more about sheet metal laser cutting, you can check out these resources:
A Comprehensive Guide to Sheet Metal Laser Cutting | Xometry
Laser Cutting Sheet Metal: The Comprehensive Guide - Baison
Laser Cutting – SheetMetal.Me
3.Which application is used for sheet metal laser cutting ?
Specific applications for sheet metal laser cutting may vary depending on the manufacturer and equipment. However, some commonly used software for programming and controlling sheet metal laser cutting machines include: CAD/CAM Software: Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Fusion 360, is often used to create designs and generate toolpaths for the laser cutting process. CNC control software: Many sheet metal laser cutting machines are equipped with a CNC (computer numerical control) system that uses proprietary or specialized software to control the cutting process. Examples of CNC control software include Mazak Smart System, Trumpf TruTops, and Amada's AMNC. These software tools are used to create and modify designs, generate tool paths, specify cutting parameters, and control the movement of the laser cutting head during the cutting process. Be sure to check with the manufacturer of your specific laser cutting machine for guidance on using the appropriate software.