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Laser Cutting Machines
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of a laser cutting machine depends on multiple parameters, such as the work area, laser type and output power, cutting speed, material handling, and various accessories. The price can be as low as $4,000 to well above $25,000.
While some laser cutters can cut materials 20 mm thick, and in some cases thicker, most machines operate on materials that are closer to 0.5–12 mm thick, depending on the type of a cut required.
Laser cutting machines are used in industrial and commercial applications for cutting metals, alloys, granite, marble, wood, plastics, polymers, etc.
Laser cutters can be used for cutting a wide range of materials from wood and paper to sheet metals and precious metals. Laser cutters are not used for food and drugs, for example, although food and drug containers and boxes may be processes using laser cutters. Generally, one must do some research about the suitability of a laser cutter for processing specific materials before using the machine.
Lasers can harm the skin via photochemical or thermal burns. Depending on the wavelength, the beam may penetrate both the epidermis and the dermis. Caution must be taken when operating laser cutting machines, as they typically work with high-power laser sources which can burn the skin and damage the eyes.
In choosing a laser cutter, you should consider all the key parameters including Laser source and it's power, output wavelength, work area and price. You should also consider the quality and the reliability as well as required maintenance. Additionally, you should consider cooling and ventilation requirements, software interface and accessories.
Laser cutting offers high efficiency and productivity for high-volume industrial cutting applications. Its reproducibility, ease of use and total cost of ownership are the key benefits over other cutting technologies.
The laser source is normally the bottleneck for laser cutting machines. Usually, one can expect 25,000 to 100,000 hours lifetime depending on the type of the laser source used in the cutter. Under 24/7 usage rate, this translates to nearly 3 to 11 years of lifetime. Preventive maintenance is normally done to replace the laser prior to failure.
Did You know?
1 - Intro to Laser Cutting
2 - What are Laser Wire Strippers?
3 - 6 Advantages of Laser Cutters