A Guide to Industrial Laser Cutting
If you are in the manufacturing or sheet metal industry, you might have heard the term "industrial laser cutting". This process has been a revolution in the manufacturing industry and is applied in many applications due to its precision, speed, and accuracy. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring industrial laser cutting in-depth — from what it is to how it works and its benefits.
What Is Industrial Laser Cutting?
Industrial laser cutting is a process that uses a high-powered laser beam to cut materials like metal, plastic, wood, and more. The process is achieved by focusing the laser beam onto the material which generates heat, causing the material to melt, burn, or vaporize, and eventually cutting through the material.
How Does it Work?
The laser cutting process starts with the input of the required design, typically via CAD (computer-aided design) software. Once the design is uploaded to the laser cutting machine, the operator can select parameters such as the cutting speed, power, and focal length to optimise the cutting process. The laser beam is then guided by computer-controlled mirrors, focusing the beam onto the material for cutting.
Benefits of Industrial Laser Cutting
There are several major advantages of using industrial laser cutting over traditional cutting methods such as plasma cutting or waterjet cutting. Firstly, laser cutting is precise and produces minimal waste. Secondly, it allows for high-speed and efficient cutting of materials. Thirdly, it is versatile and applicable to a wide range of materials and thicknesses. Lastly, the machines require low maintenance, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.
Safety Measures for Industrial Laser Cutting
While industrial laser cutting is a highly efficient and precise process, it is important to take proper safety measures when operating the machines. This includes wearing appropriate protective gear such as safety glasses and gloves, ensuring proper ventilation in the cutting area, and following all machine-specific safety protocols. It is also crucial to have trained and experienced operators to handle the machines.
Industrial laser cutting is a method that has revolutionised the manufacturing industry. It enables precise, speedy, efficient, and versatile cutting of materials. While traditional cutting methods still have their applications, the benefits of industrial laser cutting cannot be ignored. The use of industrial laser cutting can help to reduce waste, optimise production processes and save on costs, making it an essential tool in the manufacturing industry.
For more information on laser cutting, contact a professional near you.