Guide to Choosing the Best Laser Cutting Machine for Metal Processing

Source:razortekcnc  Time:2024-07-31

Choosing the appropriate laser cutting machine can optimize the production process and achieve high-quality processing results. With the continuous development of the metal manufacturing

industry, choosing the right equipment is more important than ever before. This is a selection guide that will help you understand different types of laser cutting machines and their respective 

functions. I will analyze from the aspects of power, accuracy, speed, cost, specifications, etc. to help you choose the best machine you need.

Types of laser cutting machines:

1. CO2 laser cutting machine

CO2 laser cutting machines are widely used in metal and non-metal manufacturing industries, using high-power CO2 laser beams to accurately cut different types of materials. CO2 laser cutting

machines are renowned for their versatility and ability to cut thin materials.

2. Fiber laser cutting machine

Due to the fact that fiber laser cutting machines are the latest laser technology with strong cutting capabilities and relatively low technical requirements, they are gradually becoming popular

and occupying the market. These machines use fiber laser sources to generate concentrated beams that can penetrate various metals.

3. YAG laser cutting machine

YAG laser cutting machine uses a focused high-power density laser beam to irradiate the workpiece, causing the irradiated material to quickly melt, vaporize, burn or reach the ignition point. 

At the same time, it blows air at high speed coaxial with the beam to melt the material, thereby achieving workpiece cutting.

Among them, CO2 laser cutting machine is the mainstream laser cutting equipment in the market, with strong cutting ability and wide range. Fiber laser cutting machine technology is the latest, 

and with relatively low technical requirements, metal laser cutting machine equipment is gradually becoming popular.

So how to choose a suitable laser cutting machine, the following are some key factors:

1. Type of laser source

As mentioned above, different types of laser sources have different characteristics.

Carbon dioxide lasers are suitable for cutting thin metal and non-metal materials.

Fiber laser sources can only be used for cutting metals and are suitable for cutting thin and thick metal plates.

In terms of laser stability and service life, fiber laser sources are superior to CO2 laser tubes.

2. Laser source power

The maximum cutting thickness refers to the thickest material that the machine can effectively cut.

The power of a laser cutting machine determines its cutting ability. Higher power machines can cut thicker materials at a faster speed.

However, machines with higher power also have higher price tags.

3. Accuracy

Accuracy is crucial in metal manufacturing. The accuracy of laser cutting machines directly affects the quality of finished products. Search for machines with high positioning accuracy and

repeatability. This will ensure your cutting accuracy.

4. Cutting speed

Production efficiency is another important consideration factor. Laser cutting machines with higher cutting speeds can significantly improve your productivity.

Generally speaking, the power of the laser source, the motor power equipped on the laser cutting machine, and the transmission structure of the laser cutting machine determine the overall

cutting speed of the machine. The higher the power of the laser source and motor, the faster the cutting speed of the machine.

5. Pricing and budget considerations for laser cutting machines

The price range of laser cutting machines is very wide, depending on their specifications and functions.

It is important to develop a budget and consider long-term investment returns. Although choosing a cheaper machine may be tempting, evaluating the quality and reliability of the machine is

crucial.

6. Safety

The laser emitted by the laser cutting machine has high heat. Direct contact with lasers can cause serious harm to the human body, and inadequate laser radiation protection facilities may cause

harm to the human eye. Therefore, when choosing a laser cutting machine, it is necessary to verify whether the safety of the laser cutting machine meets the standards. You can determine the

safety of the laser cutting machine by whether it has FDA or CE certification. If it is possible to visit the factory site, the safety of the machine can be judged by checking whether the machine has 

safety labels, whether the machine accessories have safety signs and comply with safety standards.

Taking the analysis of various factors in this article as a reference and making choices, you will be able to choose the laser cutting machine that suits your needs.