A laser cutter is a great tool that can be used to create many different things. From simple boxes to carving detailed figures into wood or building complex three-dimensional objects.
I'll explain the basics of how a laser cutter works, show you some examples of things you can make with a laser, and how to create designs for laser cutting or engraving. You'll also learn what materials are available and how to use a laser cutter.
What is a laser cutter?
A laser cutter is a computer-controlled machine that uses a laser beam to precisely cut or engrave material. Lasers are basically just highly focused, highly amplified light. The laser beam locally burns, melts or vaporizes the material. The types of materials a laser can cut depend on the type of laser and the power of the specific machine.
What can you do with a laser cutter?
Generally speaking, a laser cutter can perform three tasks: cutting, engraving and marking.
Laser cutting
As the laser beam travels all the way through the workpiece material, it creates an incision. Laser cutting is usually very precise and clean. The appearance of the cut edge depends on the material. For example, the edges of cut wood are often darker than the original wood. The edges of the acrylic will not tarnish after laser cutting and have a nice gloss finish.
Laser cutters make very small cuts. The term kerf refers to the width of the groove formed when cutting. This varies from material to material and also depends on the specific settings of the laser. For many materials, the cut will be between 0.05 mm (0.002 in) and 0.5 mm (0.02 in).
Laser engraving
When the laser beam removes part of the top material but does not completely cut through the material, it is called engraving.
Laser Marking
Marking means that the laser does not remove material, but changes the color of the material. Marking with a CO2 laser cutter is mainly used for metal processing.
Apply the marking solution to the workpiece surface. Carve after the marking solution has dried. The heat from the laser bonds the solution to the metal, creating a permanent mark.
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