Laser cutting FAQs

The type of laser, its power output, wavelength, and the specific material being processed will determine the depth that laser cutting is able to achieve. Typically, metals of 25mm to 30mm thick can be cut using high-power lasers. For other materials, such as wood and plastics, a laser cutting machine can achieve depths of 50mm to 60mm. Novanta Photonics’ precision laser cutting solutions are engineered to deliver a high-precision finish, regardless of depth.

Laser cutting and CNC are both controlled using computer numerical control (CNC) technology, but the key difference between the two processing techniques is:

• Laser cutting uses laser beams to precisely remove material without applying force, making it ideal for intricate details and sensitive materials.

• CNC cutting uses a cutting tool to remove material, so it may be used for processing thicker materials and other heavy duty tasks, but at a lower speed.

While laser cutting uses a focused laser beam to cut away material, plasma cutting uses a high-temperature plasma arc to melt away material.

• Laser cutting can achieve greater precision than plasma cutting. Due to lower heat stress, the material requires less post-processing.

• Plasma cutting is only suited for metals and conductive materials, and creates a coarse cutting edge.

Laser cutting is regarded as one of the more sustainable material processing techniques. As a non-contact method, there’s minimal tool wear, reducing the level of maintenance required compared to traditional cutting methods. Laser cutting’s extreme precision produces minimal waste, and Novanta Photonics’ solutions are engineered to integrate with existing systems to deliver long-term efficiency, further supporting sustainability efforts.