Basic knowledge of laser cutting sheet metal

Almost all metals and alloys are suitable for laser cutting of sheet metal, except those that produce fumes during the cutting process. balsa machining service has the ability to laser cut.

The most common are steel, aluminum, copper, and titanium. In fact, metal is a relatively easy material to laser cut. In addition, both CO2 and fiber lasers can process metal workpieces. Now let’s discuss the three main types of metal laser cutting sheet metal projects.

Steel laser cutting

Lasers can cut steel into sheets 10 mm or thicker. Precise and smooth-cut steel laser cutting benefits automotive, shipbuilding, and other industrial applications. Additionally, the laser retains the properties of steel, such as strength and flexibility. A major challenge in laser cutting steel is the reflectivity of certain types of steel. Additionally, the high carbon content can harden near the final strike location. Here are some applications for steel laser cutting:

1.Auto body parts
2.Shipbuilding steel plate
3.HVAC components
4.Machining Tools and Dies
5.Signage and lettering
6.Intricate decoration

Aluminum laser cutting

Another popular material for laser cutting is aluminum, a lightweight, high-strength metal with excellent corrosion resistance and moderate ductility. The softness of aluminum allows laser machines to cut quickly (20 to 35 mm/sec). However, it may leave a small amount of burrs on the cutting surface. For the reflectivity of aluminum surfaces, CO2 lasers are relatively more suitable. Here are some applications for aluminum laser cutting:

1.Aviation parts
2.Satellite components
3.Bicycle frame
4.Car panel
5.Electronic product casing
6.lamps
7.Marine hardware parts
8.Solar panel frame

Titanium laser cutting

Titanium is a hard and strong metal often used in high-performance applications. Its hardness also affects the laser cutting process and limits the maximum cutting thickness. However, high-power lasers with assist gas can effectively cut complex features with tight tolerances from titanium sheets. Additionally, titanium laser cutting produces less heat-affected zone than other types of laser cutting sheet metal. Typical laser cutting speeds for titanium are 5 to 20 mm/s. Application examples of laser cutting titanium include:

1.Aircraft engine and airframe components
2.High performance automotive parts
3.Medical implants, such as hip and knee replacements
4.Chemical process equipment
5.Military armor and parts
6.Protective housings for high voltage applications