What is laser cutting?

Laser cutting is a precision manufacturing process that uses a focused, high-power laser beam to accurately cut through industrial materials. The heat generated by laser beams can melt, burn or vaporize even the toughest materials, including metals and acrylics. Laser cutting can create clean-cut or rounded edges, tapered cuts, and intricate, complex designs. It’s used by industries including the aerospace, automotive and electronics sectors for rapid prototyping and manufacturing.

Laser light is generated within the laser, with the light generation depending on the type of laser medium used e.g. CO2 or solid state. The resulting beam exhibits a high power density and possesses a wavelength specific to the type of laser.

Mirrors or fiber optics are used to direct the laser beam to a lens that focusses the beam to a small spot on the surface of the material.

When the focused laser beam comes into contact with the material, its power generates heat that melts, burns or vaporizes the material that is no longer required. A jet of gas can be used to assist the cutting process, blowing away residuals, resulting in a high-quality edge.

Laser cutting produces a cleaner, more precise finish than other cutting methods, but manufacturers may complete the process by cleaning or deburring the newly cut area during post-processing to ensure the highest quality finish.