Tips to Select the Right Laser Cutting Machine

Laser cutting machines stand apart from one another based on the type of laser that is being used. Those users who want to purchase a laser cutter may wonder how to choose the right one. While looking at reviews for Boss Laser is a good starting point, don’t stop there. One of the first things to learn is about the different types of lasers that are available. Keep reading to learn about the types of laser cutters and what each one offers. This will help anyone make an educated decision regarding what laser cutter they want to purchase.

CO2 Laser Cutters

A CO2 laser cutting machine is made up of CO2 gas and a mix of other gases, such as nitrogen and helium. This gas mixture is charged by electric discharge, which is what creates the laser beam. These laser cutters have a wavelength of 10.6 millimetres. Most people who are starting out with laser cutting purchase the CO2 laser first because this is one of the most common options, the most affordable, and the longest-lasting one available. Some of the materials that this type of laser cutter can be used with include acrylic, wood, leather, plastics, and glass.

Crystal Laser Cutters

The crystal laser cutter will generate a beam from the Neodymium doped yttrium ortho vanadate. With these cutters, the wavelength is small compared to the CO2 cutters that were described above. While this is true, they can cut through much thicker materials. The smaller wavelength helps improve beam intensity and focus, as well. One of the main drawbacks of this type of cutter is that the parts will wear out due to the higher power functionality. The materials that can be cut with crystal lasers include ceramics, metals, and plastics.

Fiber Laser Cutters

The fiber laser originated from a seed laser that has been amplified and magnified using special types of optical fibers. A common name for a fiber laser that many people use and hear is a solid-state laser. The huge benefits of using a fiber laser cutter are that it can be used for cutting conductive and reflective metals that are three times the size of what can be cut with a CO2 laser. Also, these lasers do not have any movable parts. It is possible to use fiber lasers on metal materials, along with organic matter. While a fiber laser cutter is similar to crystal lenses, they are more efficient and do not require much maintenance. Some of the materials that a fiber laser cutter can be used with include organic materials and metals.

When it comes to choosing a laser cutter, there are more than a few options to consider. Be sure to keep the tips and information here in mind, which is the perfect starting point to find a laser cutter for the job that is being done. Being informed and knowing about the available options will help ensure the desired results are achieved and that the laser cutter can meet the expectations a person has.