Laser Cutting Thin Aluminum

Laser cutting small parts accurately and with repeatability on thinner sheet metals does require a lower power system.

Laser cutting thin aluminum.

Using a high power laser machine on thin metals can create several problems that could be avoided with a lower powered machine. An emphasis on hybrid fabrication allows us to mix processes providing a broader overall product offering and better customization for our clients. Our use of single mode lasers ensure minimal thermal distortion. Many laser job shops have difficulty cutting and drilling thin metals laserod does not.

Thin metal parts manufactures high quality components to suit the tightest specification s utilizing chemical milling electroforming and laser cutting processes. Mike klos laser mechanisms converting to millimeters that s 1550 watts mm 2. Sheet metal cutting requires a power density of 10 6 watts in 2 source. In the field of automobile manufacturing the cutting technology of space curves such as car roof windows has been widely used.

Using a galvanometer to steer the beam is an alternative method for laser cutting thin metals. The automatic focusing height follower developed by kern laser systems is one of the key elements for optimal metal cutting. As a reference a 40 w laser can cut through paper cardboard foam and thin plastic while a 300 w laser can cut through thin steel and thicker plastic. The metal cutting option allows for accurate cutting of sheet metals like stainless steel mild steel aluminum copper and brass.

Cnc programming can also regulate power output enabling the laser to shift settings depending on the contours and thickness of the material being cut. Unlike many chemical etching companies that only specialize in a. Galvanometer steered thin metal cutting. Most laser cutting machines are controlled by cnc programs or made into cutting robots.

Otherwise you are simply using a sledgehammer to crack nuts and losing yourself money for doing so. 1in 2 645mm 2 a 100 watt laser can achieve a power density of 1550 watts mm 2 in a spot size that is 0 6452mm 2 a spot size that is 0 6452mm 2 has a diameter of of 28mm or 280 micron using area pi d 2 2 280 micron. If you wish to cut through 2 mm or thicker steel sheets you ll need at least 500 w. The computer controlled galvanometer enables high speed cutting patterns as well as multiple repetitions of the same pattern in quick succession reducing heat induced strain on the part.

As a sophisticated machining method laser cutting can cut almost all materials including 2d or 3d cutting of thin metal sheets. Our range of laser cut widths kerfs is 10 50 microns. The thinner the material the better.