What is CNC Laser Cutting: Definition, Types, Advantages & Cost

In our increasingly digital world, CNC laser cutting has emerged as a crucial technology in various sectors, including manufacturing, engineering, and design. This guide provides an in-depth understanding of CNC laser cutting, its applications, benefits, limitations, and trends. This comprehensive understanding can open up new opportunities for businesses and hobbyists alike.

What is CNC Laser Cutting?

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) laser cutting is a laser cutting technology that utilizes a high-power laser beam guided by computer instructions to cut or engrave materials. This technique offers a high degree of accuracy and precision, capable of creating complex shapes and designs that would be almost impossible to achieve manually. It is commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical, and construction.

How Does CNC Laser Cutting Work?

Here’s a generalized explanation of the CNC laser cutting process:

• A design is created using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.
• The CAD design is then converted into a CNC program using CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software.
• The chosen material is prepared and placed on the CNC machine’s work surface.
• The machine is then set up according to the specific cutting requirements.
• The CNC machine guides the laser beam along the programmed path, cutting through the material.
• As the laser cuts, the material is cooled to prevent overheating and aid solidification.
• After cutting, the parts are inspected for quality, and post-processing steps may be performed if required.

What are the Main Stages of the CNC Laser Cutting Process?

Design and CAD/CAM Programming

The process begins with designing the desired shape or pattern using computer-aided design (CAD) software. Once the design is complete, it is converted into machine-readable code using computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. This code contains the instructions that will guide the CNC machine during the cutting process.

Material Preparation

The material to be cut, such as metal sheets, wood, acrylic, or other materials, is prepared and placed on the CNC laser cutting machine’s work surface.

Machine Setup

The CNC machine is set up for the specific material and thickness to be cut. This includes adjusting the focal length of the laser, selecting the appropriate cutting parameters (e.g., power, speed, and gas pressure for assist gases), and ensuring the correct alignment of the material.

Laser Cutting

Once the setup is complete, the CNC machine begins the cutting process. The focused laser beam is directed onto the material’s surface, rapidly heating it to the point of melting or vaporization. The high-energy laser cuts through the material along the programmed path, guided by the CNC instructions.

Material Removal

As the laser beam moves along the programmed path, it melts or vaporizes the material. The molten or vaporized material is expelled from the kerf (the cut path), leaving behind the desired shape or pattern.

Cooling and Solidification

As the laser cuts through the material, it generates a significant amount of heat. Cooling mechanisms, such as water or air jets, are often employed to prevent the material from overheating and to aid in solidification.

Quality Inspection

After the cutting process is complete, the cut parts are inspected for accuracy and quality. Any imperfections or deviations from the intended design are assessed, and adjustments can be made if necessary.

Post-Processing (Optional)

Depending on the application, the cut parts may undergo additional post-processing steps, such as deburring, surface treatment, or assembly.

What are the Main Terminologies used in CNC Laser Cutting

When delving into the world of CNC laser cutting, one is bound to come across a myriad of terminologies. These terms are key to understanding the operations and processes in this industry. Here are some of the most commonly used terms:

• CNC (Computer Numerical Control): This refers to the automated control of machining tools by means of a computer. A CNC machine operates on a piece of material (metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or composite) to transform it into the desired shape.
• CAD (Computer-Aided Design): CAD is a type of software that designers use to create precise 3D models or 2D drawings of a physical part. These designs are then used by the CNC machine to cut and shape the material.
• CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing): This technology uses computer software and machinery to facilitate and automate manufacturing processes. CAM is often linked with CAD for more integrated functionality.
• Kerf: In laser cutting, kerf refers to the width of the groove made by the laser beam. Understanding kerf width is vital for precision as it can affect the size of the cut part.
• Focal Length: The focal length in a laser cutting machine is the distance between the lens and the material’s surface. It plays a significant role in the quality and precision of the cut.
• Assist Gas: During the cutting process, an assist gas like oxygen, nitrogen, or air is used to eject the molten material and helps in the cutting process. The choice of gas depends on the type of material and the required cut quality.
• Cutting Parameters: These include settings like the speed of the laser, power, assist gas pressure, and focal point position which are optimized to achieve the desired cut.
• Pierce Time/Dwell Time: The time taken by the laser to pierce the material before the cut starts is called pierce time or dwell time.
• Nozzle: The nozzle in a laser cutting machine directs the assist gas into the kerf to expel the molten material.
• Chiller: In laser cutting machines, chillers are used to cool down the laser and the optics, ensuring their optimal performance and longevity.
• Nesting: This refers to the process of arranging the parts to be cut on the material in such a way as to minimize waste.
• CNC Controller: The CNC controller is the brain of the CNC machine. It interprets and executes the G-code or M-code programming instructions to control the machine.
• Laser Power: The power output of a laser, measured in watts, impacts both the cutting speed and the thickness of the material that can be cut. It also influences the cost of the machine.
• Wavelength: The wavelength of the laser determines the material’s absorption rate for heating, melting, and vaporizing. Different materials absorb different wavelengths more efficiently.
• Beam Mode: The intensity distribution across the laser beam affects the focal spot size and cut quality. Beam mode can be manipulated for different cutting tasks.
• Focal Spot: The focal spot is the point where the laser beam is focused on the material. The size and position of the focal spot have significant impacts on the cutting quality and speed.

CNC Laser Cutting Programming

In the world of CNC laser cutting, programming is a fundamental element. Programming ensures that the CNC machine carries out the desired tasks in the correct sequence and manner. Two major programming languages are used in this field: G-code and M-code.

What is G-code

G-code, also known as preparatory code, is the most widely used numerical control (NC) programming language. It provides precise control of speed, location, and coordination of the CNC machine’s moving parts like the laser head, axes, and tool feed. Each line of a G-code contains commands telling the machine what to do and how to do it.

What is M-Code

M-code, or miscellaneous code, is another important NC programming language used alongside G-code. While G-code controls the position and speed of the machine, M-code controls other aspects of the machine, such as turning the laser on and off, changing the tool, or activating the coolant.

What are the Different Types of CNC Laser Cutting Machines?

There are various types of CNC laser cutting machines, differentiated by the kind of laser they use and the number of axes they operate on. Here’s a closer look at these types:

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)

CO2 laser cutters are some of the most common and versatile types of laser cutting machines. They use a gas mixture with a high concentration of carbon dioxide, electrically stimulated to produce a powerful laser beam. These machines are great for cutting, engraving, and boring a wide range of materials, including most metals and non-metals.

Fiber

Fiber laser cutters use solid-state lasers with an optical fiber infused with rare-earth elements as the lasing medium. Fiber laser cutting is known for its efficiency, precision, and excellent beam quality. Fiber lasers are particularly effective for cutting metals and are often used in industrial applications.

Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG, or YAG)

YAG laser cutters utilize a crystal as the lasing medium, doped with neodymium (Nd). These lasers are effective for engraving and cutting metals and ceramics, and can be used for welding as well. The YAG laser can generate high-power beams and can operate in both pulsed and continuous modes.

Based on Axis

The axis of a CNC machine refers to the number of directions the cutting tool can move in. More axes allow for more complex shapes and intricate cuts.

2-Axis CNC Laser Cutting

A 2-axis CNC laser cutter operates in a flat, 2D plane. This machine can move its laser head horizontally (X-axis) and vertically (Y-axis), which is optimal for cutting flat sheet materials like metal and wood.

3-Axis CNC Laser Cutting

In addition to the capabilities of the 2-axis machine, a 3-axis CNC laser cutter can move its laser head up and down (Z-axis), providing a greater depth of cut. This is especially useful for engraving applications.

4-Axis CNC Laser Cutting

A 4-axis CNC laser cutter can perform all movements of a 3-axis machine, but also rotates the workpiece around one axis, usually the X or Y-axis. This additional rotation allows for the creation of complex geometries and shapes.

5-Axis CNC Laser Cutting

5-axis CNC laser cutters offer even more flexibility, with the ability to rotate the workpiece around two separate axes simultaneously. This offers a great deal of control and precision in creating multi-dimensional, intricate shapes.

6-Axis CNC Laser Cutting

The 6-axis CNC laser cutter is the most advanced, featuring all the capabilities of the 5-axis machine plus another rotational axis. This allows the machine to cut from almost any angle, delivering extremely complex and precise cuts.

What are some common applications of CNC laser cutting?

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) laser cutting is used across a wide array of industries, owing to its precision and ability to shape various materials.

Here are some sectors that frequently utilize this technology:

• Automotive Industry: CNC laser cutting is critical in vehicle manufacturing, used for precise shaping of sheet metal parts, cutting car body panels, and creating small components with intricate designs.
• Aerospace Industry: In the aerospace sector, precision is paramount. CNC laser cutting machines are employed to produce accurate parts with narrow tolerances, making the most of their ability to cut exotic metals and composites commonly used in the industry.
• Electronics Industry: From etching circuit boards to creating smartphone components, CNC laser cutters are versatile tools in electronics production.
• Medical Equipment Manufacturing: CNC laser cutters facilitate the production of surgical tools, medical devices, and orthopedic implants, where detail and accuracy are of the utmost importance.
• Jewelry Industry: Creating intricate designs with high precision, CNC laser cutting is used extensively in jewelry making for cutting and engraving purposes.
• Construction Sector: Large-scale CNC laser cutting machines assist in cutting structural components for buildings, bridges, and other construction projects.

What are the advantages of using CNC laser cutting?

CNC laser cutting provides a plethora of advantages, making it a popular choice for various industries. Beyond its renowned precision and accuracy, here are some other key benefits:

• Higher Quality Edges: The non-contact nature of laser cutting reduces the chance of mechanical distortion, resulting in cleaner edges with little to no burring.
• Narrower Kerfs: Compared to traditional cutting methods, CNC laser cutters produce a much smaller cut width (kerf), which allows for intricate cuts and maximizes material usage.
• Smaller Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ) and Less Material Distortion: As lasers produce a smaller HAZ, there is less chance of thermal distortion of the material.
• Less Contamination and Waste: The precision of the CNC laser cutter results in less waste material, and since it’s a contactless process, there’s reduced risk of material contamination.
• Less Maintenance Required: CNC laser cutters often require less maintenance than their mechanical counterparts due to their non-contact nature.
• Less Repair Costs: Fewer mechanical parts mean there are fewer components that can wear out or break, thus reducing repair costs.
• Greater Operator Safety: The operation of a CNC laser cutter is generally automated and enclosed, reducing risks to the operator compared to manual cutting methods.

How accurate and precise is CNC laser cutting?

CNC laser cutting machines are known for their high precision and accuracy. The standard tolerances for CNC laser cutting typically range from +/- 0.1 mm to +/- 0.01 mm, depending on the machine, material, and the complexity of the part. This level of precision allows industries to produce parts with intricate details and strict dimensional tolerances.

How Much Does CNC laser cutting Cost?

The cost of CNC laser cutting can vary based on several factors. On average, CNC laser cutting services can range from $75 to $150 per hour, depending on the complexity of the job and the materials used. Factors that may impact the overall cost include:

• Material Type: Different materials require varying laser power levels and cutting speeds, affecting the overall cost.
• Cutting Complexity: Complex cuts or intricate designs take more time and can increase the cost.
• Material Thickness: Thicker materials require more power and time to cut, contributing to a higher cost.
• Machine Operation Time: Longer operation times can result in higher costs due to increased energy usage and potential machine wear.
• Post-Processing Requirements: If additional processes such as cleaning, polishing, or coating are required, these can add to the overall cost.

How much does a CNC laser cutting machine cost?

As technology continues to advance, the price range of CNC laser cutting machines also varies significantly, with factors such as the machine’s power output, size, brand, type of laser, and the materials it can handle playing a crucial role in the overall cost. It’s important to note that these machines are substantial investments, intended to improve precision, boost productivity, and reduce production time in various industries.

• Small or Hobbyist CNC Laser Cutters: These types of machines are suitable for beginners, hobbyists, or small businesses. They often have less power and a smaller working area. Prices range from $300 to $5000.
• Mid-Range CNC Laser Cutters: Suitable for small to medium businesses with regular usage, these machines offer more power and a larger working area. You can expect these to cost anywhere from $5000 to $20,000.
• Industrial or Professional CNC Laser Cutters: These machines are designed for heavy usage in industries such as aerospace and manufacturing. They typically have high power output and a large working area. Prices generally start at around $20,000 and can go up to $100,000 and beyond, depending on the specifications.

What types of materials can be cut using a CNC laser cutting machine?

CNC laser cutters are exceptionally versatile tools, capable of cutting a wide range of materials with a high degree of accuracy and repeatability. They are typically used for metals and non-metals, with the ability to handle thicknesses varying by material and laser power. Here’s a closer look at the materials these machines can cut:

• Metals: These include steel, aluminum, and other metals. Laser cutters are perfect for precision cutting metal sheets, with the power output and laser type influencing the cut quality and thickness handled.
• Plastics: Both thermoplastics and non-thermoplastics can be laser cut, though caution is needed due to potentially harmful fumes. Types include acrylic, ABS, and polycarbonate.
• Thermoplastics: These are a type of plastic that becomes moldable when heated. Examples include nylon, polyethylene, and polyvinyl chloride.
• Rubber: Laser cutters can precisely cut rubber, making them ideal for producing gaskets, seals, and other custom rubber parts.
• Leather: Whether for fashion, upholstery, or crafts, laser cutting machines can provide precise cuts on leather, including complex patterns and designs.
• Ceramics: CNC lasers can cut and engrave ceramics, though caution is needed to prevent cracking or breakage.
• Wood: From hardwoods to softwoods and plywood, laser cutters offer precise cuts and intricate detailing.
• Acrylic: Laser cutting is an excellent method for working with acrylic, providing clean edges and intricate designs.
• Foam: Ideal for packaging, insulating materials, and crafts, foam can be cleanly and efficiently cut with a laser cutter.
• Textiles: From cotton to polyester and even delicate fabrics like silk, laser cutters offer precise and fray-free cuts.
• Paper: Whether for crafts, model-making, or packaging, laser cutters can handle paper of various thicknesses.
• Composites: Composites like fiberglass and carbon fiber can be cut with a CNC laser, though special care is needed due to the risk of harmful particles.
• Stone: Laser cutters can engrave stone but cutting through is usually not possible due to the high thickness and hardness.
• Glass: Like stone, laser cutters are more commonly used to engrave glass rather than cut it.

Are There Any Limitations to CNC laser cutting?

As efficient and precise as CNC laser cutting machines are, they are not without their limitations. Understanding these restrictions is essential to maximizing the efficiency of these machines and achieving the desired results.

• Difficulty with Certain Materials: While CNC laser cutters can handle a wide variety of materials, some are more challenging than others. Reflective metals like copper and brass can reflect the laser beam, causing potential damage to the machine. Furthermore, cutting materials like polycarbonate can produce harmful gases.
• Thickness Limitations: The thickness of the material that a CNC laser cutter can handle depends on the machine’s power. Lower power machines may struggle with thicker materials, especially metals.
• Lack of 3D Cutting Capability: CNC laser cutters are typically 2D cutting tools. They can’t achieve the same level of depth and 3D shaping that tools like CNC routers can.
• Heat Affected Zone (HAZ): The heat produced by the laser can alter the properties of the material around the cut, potentially affecting its structural integrity.

What are some common problems and defects with CNC laser cutting?

Even with the highest precision, laser cutting isn’t always a flawless process. Several common problems and defects can occur, affecting the quality of the cut. These include:

• Burn marks: Excessive heat can cause discoloration or burning on the edges of the material.
• Dross: This is a byproduct of the cutting process, forming as molten material that solidifies on the bottom edge of the cut.
• Warping: Heat from the laser can cause thin materials to warp during the cutting process.
• Incomplete cuts: If the laser power is too low or the cutting speed too high, the laser may not fully penetrate the material.
• Overcutting: When the power is too high or the speed too slow, the laser may cut beyond the intended boundary.

What are some design tips for CNC laser cutting?

CNC laser cutting is an advanced technology that gives designers and manufacturers precise control over the cutting process. To fully exploit its benefits and possibilities, there are certain design considerations to be aware of.

For instance, selecting the appropriate laser power is pivotal to achieve the desired cutting result. Depending on the type of material and the thickness, the power output of the laser should be adjusted. A CO2 laser cutter, for example, may be optimal for certain materials such as wood, plastic, or acrylic, whereas a fiber laser might be a better choice for metals.

Designers should also consider the cutting speed and the gas used. The optimal cutting speed often depends on the material, the machine, and the desired quality. In some cases, slower speeds can result in higher precision cutting, while in others, faster speeds can reduce the heat impact zone and improve cut quality.

Material compatibility and its behavior under laser cutting conditions is another crucial aspect to consider. It’s important to know how different materials respond to the laser beam’s heat, and how this affects the resulting shape and finish of the cut.

Lastly, design files are of great importance in CNC laser cutting. Formats like DXF or DWG are typically used, and design software such as CorelDraw or Adobe Illustrator can aid in creating the designs. The design file should be precise and clear to ensure the laser cutter understands exactly where to cut or engrave.

Here are a few additional design tips to consider:

• Avoid intricate designs that could potentially lead to material damage or failure.
• Take into account the kerf width when designing your parts.
• Be aware of the laser’s tolerance when designing for tight fits.
• Ensure there is enough space in your design for heat dissipation to avoid melting or deforming of the material.

How long does CNC laser cutting typically take?

The duration of a CNC laser cutting operation varies greatly and depends on several factors. These can include the power of the laser, the intricacy of the design, the thickness and type of material, and the precision required.

As a rough guide:

• For thin sheet metals (1mm), a CNC laser cutting machine may take just a few minutes to cut a simple shape, but intricate patterns may take up to 15-20 minutes.
• For thicker materials (10mm), cutting time could range from 20 minutes for simple designs to over an hour for more complex patterns.
• If engraving is involved, this can further extend the operation time, depending on the complexity and size of the engraving.

Remember, these are just rough estimates and actual cutting times can be shorter or longer, depending on the factors mentioned above.

Is CNC laser cutting hard?

Like any manufacturing technology, mastering CNC laser cutting requires understanding of the process, machine operation, and design principles. For beginners, there may be a learning curve, especially when dealing with various materials, design software, and machine settings.

However, once the basics are grasped, CNC laser cutting can be a straightforward process. Many CNC laser cutters today come with user-friendly software interfaces and comprehensive manuals, making it easier for users to get started. The important thing is to understand how the power of the laser, speed of cutting, and type of material interact, to optimize the cutting process and achieve the desired results.

Furthermore, businesses and hobbyists alike can often find help and resources online, such as tutorials, forums, and support communities, to assist with troubleshooting and learning new techniques. Therefore, while CNC laser cutting may seem intimidating at first, with the right information, training, and practice, it becomes an accessible tool for manufacturing and creative projects alike.

What is the Environmental impact of CNC laser cutting?

As with any manufacturing process, CNC laser cutting has an environmental footprint that should be considered. These impacts can be direct, such as emissions or waste produced during the cutting process, or indirect, such as the energy consumed by the machine.

Laser cutting, in particular, uses a significant amount of electricity. Higher-powered lasers, such as fiber lasers, can consume more energy than CO2 lasers, but this may be offset by their faster cutting speeds and higher efficiency. It is important for operators to consider their energy usage and look for ways to minimize it where possible.

The cutting process can also generate waste in the form of offcuts, smoke, and fumes. Material waste can often be minimized through efficient design and nesting of parts. The smoke and fumes, on the other hand, require appropriate ventilation and filtration systems to ensure they are safely managed.

Moreover, the laser’s lifespan, the lifecycle of the machine, the source of the electricity, and the recyclability of the waste materials all contribute to the environmental impact. Businesses seeking to reduce their impact may consider renewable energy sources, efficient machine usage, and waste management plans.

Remember, while CNC laser cutting can provide precision and efficiency, like any manufacturing process, it requires thoughtful management to mitigate its environmental impacts.

 How does CNC laser cutting compare to alternative technologies?

CNC laser cutting stands as a technology that’s revolutionized the manufacturing industry, providing unprecedented speed, precision, and versatility. However, other technologies can offer different benefits or drawbacks, depending on the specifics of the application.

CNC Milling

CNC milling represents one such alternative. This method employs rotating cutting tools to remove material from a workpiece, allowing complex 3D shapes and designs to be created. However, compared to CNC laser cutting, milling can be slower and less precise, particularly when working with softer materials. The heat generated by laser cutting, as opposed to the mechanical stress exerted by milling tools, results in a cleaner cut with less deformation of the material.

Waterjet Cutting

Another alternative is waterjet cutting, which utilizes a high-pressure stream of water, sometimes mixed with an abrasive substance, to cut materials. This method can cut thicker materials than a laser cutter and works with a wide range of materials, including stone and glass, which are typically problematic for laser cutters. However, waterjet cutting can be less precise than CNC laser cutting, resulting in a larger kerf, or cut width, and it can also require more post-processing work to achieve a smooth finish.

CO2 Laser Cutters

CO2 laser cutters use a gas laser, based on a carbon dioxide mix, to cut materials. These lasers are powerful and capable of cutting thicker materials than fiber lasers. However, they are less efficient, requiring more power to operate, and they struggle to cut reflective materials, which can reflect the laser beam back into the machine, potentially causing damage. In contrast, CNC fiber laser cutting machines, like the ACCURL range, can efficiently and safely cut a wide range of materials, including highly-reflective metals.

What are the future technology trends in CNC laser cutting?

As the demands for precision, speed, and efficiency in manufacturing continue to grow, CNC laser cutting technology is not standing still. The advent of artificial intelligence and machine learning, for instance, is making laser cutting machines smarter and more autonomous. These advances are enabling real-time optimization of the cutting process, reducing waste, and increasing productivity.

Another trend to watch is the ongoing improvement in laser power and beam quality. Machines like the ACCURL MasterLINE, with its output range of 6kW to 15kW, are delivering increasingly powerful lasers capable of cutting thicker materials faster and with higher precision.

Moreover, the growing popularity of Industry 4.0 practices in the manufacturing sector will likely see a more interconnected and data-driven approach to laser cutting. With CNC machines networked together, real-time data can be shared, analyzed, and used to optimize the entire manufacturing process.

Where to get quality CNC laser cutting machines?

Choosing a CNC laser cutting machine is a significant investment. It’s therefore essential to consider several factors before making a purchase. These can include:

• The power output of the laser, which determines its cutting speed and the thickness of the material it can cut.
• The size of the cutting area, which dictates the maximum size of the workpiece the machine can handle.
• The precision of the machine, which affects the quality of the cut and the level of detail it can achieve.
• The machine’s compatibility with different materials.
• The availability of technical support and after-sales service from the manufacturer.

Given these considerations, ACCURL’s range of CNC fiber laser cutting machines stand out as a compelling choice.

The ACCURL Smart series, including the 1kW, 1.5kW, 2kW, and 3kW Fiber Laser Machines, are designed for ultra-high-speed cutting of thin sheet metal parts. These machines are not only fast and flexible, but also cost-efficient, reducing operating costs while increasing productivity.

The ACCURL SmartLINE, with its power range of 2kW to 4kW, is a versatile and compact 2D laser cutting machine. It’s capable of producing superior quality results on a wide variety of materials, including highly reflective metals and thick mild steel.

Finally, for more demanding applications, the ACCURL MasterLINE series, offering power from 6kW to 15kW, is a top-of-the-line choice. These machines are the most complete, compact, and configurable sheet metal laser cutter systems on the market, designed to evolve with your needs.

Conclusion

CNC laser cutting technology is at the forefront of the manufacturing sector, offering unparalleled precision, speed, and versatility. As the technology evolves, companies like ACCURL are leading the way, providing innovative solutions that meet the ever-changing demands of industries. Whether you are a small business owner, a hobbyist, or an industrial manufacturer, investing in a CNC laser cutting machine can transform your operation, opening up new possibilities for design, prototyping, and production.