Working Principle: Laser Cutting vs. Plasma Cutting
Understanding the fundamental working principles of laser cutting and plasma cutting is essential to appreciate their capabilities, advantages, and limitations. Both technologies are designed to cut materials efficiently but operate on entirely different mechanisms.
Laser Cutting Working Principle
Laser cutting uses a high-powered, focused beam of light to cut or engrave materials with exceptional precision. “LASER” stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Laser Generation: A laser source, such as a fiber laser or CO₂ laser, produces a coherent beam of monochromatic light. This light is generated by exciting atoms in a lasing medium, causing them to emit photons in unison.
- Beam Focusing: The laser beam is directed through a series of mirrors and lenses that concentrate it onto a very small, precise point on the material’s surface. This focusing mechanism reduces the beam diameter to as small as 0.1 mm, significantly increasing its intensity.
- Material Interaction: When the focused laser beam contacts the material, its energy is absorbed, leading to rapid heating. Depending on the laser’s power and the material’s properties, this interaction can cause:
- Melting: The material melts due to the intense heat.
- Vaporization: If the temperature surpasses the material’s boiling point, it vaporizes.
- Burning: Especially with non-metals, the material may combust.
- Assist Gas: An assist gas, such as oxygen, nitrogen, or compressed air, is blown coaxially with the laser beam through a nozzle. The assist gas has several functions:
- Ejection of Molten Material: It removes the molten or vaporized material from the kerf (cutting gap).
- Enhancing Cutting Speed: Oxygen can react exothermically with the material, increasing the cutting speed.
- Protecting the Lens: It prevents fumes and particles from contaminating the focusing lens.
- Controlled Movement: CNC (Computer Numerical Control) systems guide the laser cutting head over the material following the programmed design, ensuring precise cuts and the creation of intricate shapes.
For top-tier laser cutting solutions, AccTek Laser offers advanced technology tailored to meet diverse industrial requirements.