5 Common Laser Cutting Myths Debunked

Mention the word laser and it is easy to think of science-fiction weapons, high-security systems and other rather dramatic uses of the technology.

Industrial laser cutting is considerably less theatrical.

Modern laser cutting and engraving machines are precision manufacturing tools used by everyone from small workshops, schools and sign makers to engineering companies and large-scale manufacturers. But if you're considering buying your first laser system, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction.

At CSI Manufacturing, we supply and support CO2 and fibre laser systems for customers across the UK and Ireland, so these are some of the misconceptions we encounter most often.

Myth 1: Fibre lasers are always better than CO2 lasers

The short answer: no. The best laser depends on the material you need to process and what you want to make.

Fibre laser technology is sometimes assumed to be automatically “better” because it is newer and is frequently associated with high-powered industrial metal cutting.

In reality, CO2 and fibre lasers are designed for different applications.

CO2 lasers are particularly effective for materials such as wood, acrylic, plastics, foam and textiles, while fibre lasers are particularly well suited to processing metals.

Myth 2: A laser cutter can cut anything

No. Laser cutters are extremely versatile, but every laser source and material has limits.

Some materials cut beautifully with a laser. Others can only be processed under certain conditions, while some should not be put into a laser machine at all.

Material thickness matters too. Laser power, focal length, speed, assist gas, material composition and the machine itself can all influence the result.

A better question is: “Which laser source and machine configuration is suitable for this material, thickness and required finish?”

Myth 3: Laser cutting machines are unsafe

Laser cutters involve genuine hazards, but a properly specified, installed and operated laser system is designed to manage those risks.

Laser machines generate significant heat, and certain materials can ignite during cutting. Good extraction, air assist, appropriate machine maintenance and following the manufacturer's operating procedures are all essential.

Training matters too. Knowing which materials are safe to process, how to set up jobs correctly and how to maintain the machine can make an enormous difference.

Myth 4: All laser cutting machines are basically the same

Definitely not. Two machines described as “laser cutters” can be designed for completely different customers and applications.

Laser systems vary considerably in areas including:

• Laser source
• Power
• Bed size
• Engraving speed
• Cutting capability
• Software
• Build quality
• Safety enclosure
• Support and servicing

What should you compare when buying a laser cutter?

• What materials you regularly process
• Maximum material and product size
• Cutting versus engraving requirements
• Expected daily workload
• Required production speed
• Extraction requirements
• Training
• Warranty
• Availability of spare parts
• Local servicing and technical support

Myth 5: Laser cutters require huge amounts of maintenance

Routine laser maintenance is important, but it doesn't have to dominate your working week.

Typical maintenance can include:

• Cleaning lenses and mirrors where applicable
• Removing debris from cutting beds and collection trays
• Checking extraction inlets and outlets
• Cleaning or replacing filters
• Maintaining rails and moving components
• Checking cooling systems

So, which laser cutting machine should you choose?

There isn't one laser cutter that is “best” for every business.

The important thing is to choose a machine around your materials, products, workload and plans for the business.