Fiber Laser Cutting Thickness Guide
Carbon Steel (Mild Steel)
| Thickness | 1kW Laser | 2kW Laser | 4kW Laser | 6kW Laser |
|---|
| 2mm | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 5mm | ⚠️ Edge quality drops | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 10mm | ❌ | ⚠️ Slow | ✅ | ✅ |
| 20mm | ❌ | ❌ | ⚠️ | ✅ |
| 25mm | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ⚠️ Range limit |
Stainless Steel 304
Stainless requires 30-40% more power than carbon steel at same thickness.
- 1-3mm: 1-2kW laser sufficient
- 4-8mm: 4kW laser recommended
- 8-12mm: 6kW+ laser required
Aluminum
Aluminum reflects laser light, requiring higher power density.
- 1-3mm: 2-4kW laser
- 4-6mm: 6kW+ laser with anti-reflection protection
- Nitrogen assist gas gives better edge quality
Key Parameters
- Assist gas: Oxygen (faster but oxide edge), Nitrogen (clean edge, for stainless/aluminum)
- Focal position: Typically 0.5-1.5mm below surface for best cut
- Nozzle standoff: 0.5-1.5mm for clean cuts