Laser CuttingLaser cutting carbon, alloy and stainless steels as well as non-ferrous metals is the most widely used CO2 laser process. CO2 lasers are normally used for cutting because high power output gives them the ability to cut metals 25mm thick. The finish on the cut edge is excellent and the kerf angle is almost perpendicular to the surface. This enables the component to be cut to a very accurate size, eliminating the need for further edge finishing. Stainless steel is usually cut using nitrogen as the assist or process gas. This will produce a high quality edge with a small heat affected zone. This will often allow stainless steel components to be welded or fitted without further machining. Oxygen can be used, but will result in a poor quality cut edge. Carbon steels are cut using oxygen as the assist gas taking advantage of the exothermic reaction between steel and oxygen to increase cutting speed. Sheet carbon steel can be cut using nitrogen to improve the edge finish. Aluminium and other materials such as wood, ceramics and plastic are often cut using CO2 laser systems.
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