Today, CNC laser technology has restructured production in many industries. It has reached a height where many of those materials previously labeled as “difficult” are no longer difficult to cut. Laser technology revamped the way how materials were cut and made into different shapes.
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) lasers have become essential tools across the construction, aerospace, and automotive industries. Nothing can beat their precision and speed.
The advanced CNC laser technology allows for the precise and efficient cutting of a diverse range of materials, from metals to plastics and beyond. What are the materials that can be easily cut with CNC laser technology? Come, let’s dive into the possibilities.
Metal
CNC laser technology is popular for its ability to cut metal with remarkable precision. CNC laser cutting metal is highly valued for its precision, speed, and ability to form complex designs.
The laser uses focused light to melt or vaporize metal steadily. Different types of metals, including mild steel (carbon steel), stainless steel, aluminum, and non-ferrous metals like brass and copper, can be effectively cut using CNC laser technology. The thickness of the metal will depend on the laser cutter’s size. However, some laser cutters can cut metals that have up to a 30mm thickness.
CNC Laser Technology for Cutting Non-Metal Materials
CNC Laser technology is not only used to cut metals, but it is also used to cut a broad range of non-metal materials. Below listed are some of the most commonly used non-metal materials that can be cut using laser technology:
Wood
The signage, furniture-making, and interior designing industries use a huge amount of wood, and they can use CNC laser technology to cut the wood into custom shapes. The laser’s outstanding precision allows one to carve intricate patterns and shapes into wood. And that too, without causing extreme burning or splintering. CNC lasers can be used to make custom wooden designs, personalized gifts, and decorative items.
Plastic
The medical, consumer goods, manufacturing, and packaging industries use a huge amount of plastics. CNC laser technology enables one to cut PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene, and other types of plastics effortlessly. The products that require high tolerances must require precise cutting. CNC lasers deliver precise cuts in thin and thick plastic materials.
Acrylic
Acrylic is also known as plexiglass and is a popular material used in signage, display cases, and the lighting industry. It is a favorite material used for design and decoration purposes. CNC laser cutting can create smooth and precise edges in plexiglass and gives perfect finishing without the need for further polishing.
Leather
The hardest material leather can be cut with CNC lasers. Leather is widely used in upholstery, custom product manufacturing, and fashion industries. A CNC laser cuts intricate patterns or shapes for shoes, clothing accessories, and bags in leather. A precise cut is guaranteed.
The laser can also be used to give products a personalized touch by engraving custom designs onto leather surfaces. The cherry on the top, isn’t it?
Fabric
CNC laser technology can be used to cut fabrics like cotton, polyester, and nylon. The heat induced by the laser melts the fabric edges and gives a clean professional look. It also prevents the fabric from fraying. CNC laser technology is ideal for fashion, upholstery, and home decor.
Now let’s have a look at the advantages of CNC laser technology in material cutting.
CNC laser technology can be used to cut a wide variety of materials effortlessly. It offers several advantages over old cutting methods.
Precision and Accuracy: Allow manufacturers to create complex designs with minimal tolerances.
- Minimal Material Waste: The focused laser beam cut the material with a narrow kerf to minimize wastage.
- Speed: The fast cutting speed is helpful for large-scale production.
- Versatility: CNC laser cutting is adaptable as it can handle metals, plastics, wood, and fabrics.
Conclusion
CNC laser technology has made the impossible possible with the ability to cut a wide variety of materials with great precision and efficiency.