Materials suitable for laser cutting
Centurion Profile Cutting is a leading laser cutting company in Centurion, providing cutting-edge solutions for sheet metal fabrication needs. With years of experience in the industry, we’ve established ourselves as a trusted name when it comes to laser cutting. Furthermore, we pride ourselves on using state-of-the-art technology and employing a team of skilled professionals to deliver top-notch results that surpass customer expectations. The benefits of partnering with a reliable laser cutting company go beyond our cutting-edge technology and expertise.
Laser cutting is possible on various materials. Some materials, however, should never be laser cut.
Laser-cutting-friendly materials
The ability to cut various materials is one of the benefits of laser cutting. Certain materials, however, require a little more care when cutting.
Metals
Laser cutting is suitable for all metals, including mild steel, stainless steel, and non-ferrous metals up to 30 mm thick. More reflective metals, such as aluminium, are more difficult to cut. The laser cutting company determines the maximum thickness because it is determined by the laser’s power and the machine operator’s skill.
Wood
Laser cutting is possible with various kinds of wood, including plywood and MDF. However, oils and resins can catch fire, so be cautious.
Paper
Laser cutting is possible with both paper and cardboard.
Plastics
Acrylic, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) are examples of laser-cuttable plastics (Lucite). Polyoxymethylene (POM) is a plastic commonly used in engineering for gears, guiding elements, medical instruments, and food packaging. It’s also suitable for laser cutting.
Glass
While laser cutting glass is extremely difficult, it is possible. A skilled operator equipped with the proper tools can ensure a smooth finish.
Materials that should not be laser cut
It may appear like laser cutting can be done on almost anything. However, there are some material constraints, most notably regarding plastics.
PVC
Cutting polyvinyl chloride (PVC) produces toxic fumes and acids that are hazardous to the operator and the laser cutting machine.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate thinner than 1 mm can be cut, but laser cutting generally produces discoloured patches. This is due to the polycarbonate absorbing the infrared radiation used in material cutting. Unfortunately, it may also cause the material to catch fire.
ABS
Unlike other materials, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) does not vaporise during laser cutting. Instead, it melts, leaving behind a sloppy cut and working surface.
HDPE
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) reacts to laser cutting in the same way that ABS does.
Foams made of polystyrene and polypropylene
Polystyrene and polypropylene foam both ignite quickly. And that is only the beginning of the laser cutting issues.
Fibreglass
Laser cutting is not recommended because fibreglass combines glass and epoxy resin. Aside from the difficulty of cutting glass, the resin will emit harmful fumes when heated.
Contact Centurion Profile Cutting for details
For more information on our laser cutting services, please contact our team today to discuss how we can assist you with your project.