Process Of Laser Cutting

Laser cutting is a thermal technology that uses a laser to cut materials particularly steel, aluminum, brass, and titanium. It is not a new process; it was first introduced in 1965 to drill holes. It is basically used for industrial purposes, but schools and other small scale businesses also utilize this technology.

There are majorly three varieties of laser cutting namely fusion cutting, flame-cutting, and remote cutting. Infusion cutting nitrogen an inert gas is used to expel molten material. It does not contribute to energy output. Inflame laser cutting oxygen is used on molten material. It exerts a mechanical force which creates an exothermic reaction resulting in energy output. In remote laser cutting, no assist gas is used. Instead, it uses a laser beam to evaporate material. This process is used particularly to cut thin material.

There are three main types of laser used in laser cutting. The CO² laser is suitable for the purpose of boring, engraving and cutting. The neodymium (Nd) laser is used where high energy is needed but low repetition is required as well as for boring purposes. The ND: YAG laser is used for boring and engraving as well as where high energy is required. All these three types of laser are suitable for welding and cutting.

There are different methods used in laser cutting. In vaporization cutting the surface of the material is heated by a focused laser beam generating a keyhole. The keyhole increases the absorbing capacity of the surface deepening the hole. As a result, the material boils and vapor generates eroding the molten walls. Wood and carbon are usually cut by this method. The melt and blow method uses high-pressure gas to cut materials. First, the material is heated up to a melting point and then a high-pressure gas blows the molten material from the surface. This process is used particularly to cut metals.

Another common method of laser cutting is thermal stress cracking. In this procedure, a focused laser beam on the surface results in heating and thermal expansion. This expansion then creates a crack on the surface which is then guided by moving the laser beam thus cutting the material specifically brittle materials.

The entire process of laser cutting is very beneficial. The work is always done in the right direction with the least amount of time consumed. The amount of heat produced during laser cutting is minimal which decreases the risk of material being contaminated or damaged. It also requires less energy and is useful to cut or burn simple as well as complex materials. All this is done at National Engravers with best services.