Laser Cutting: CO₂ vs Fiber Laser Guide

Laser cutting is a thermal manufacturing process that uses a focused laser beam to cut through sheet materials with high precision. It is widely used in sheet metal fabrication, automotive, electronics, and signage industries.

How Laser Cutting Works

A high-power laser beam is focused through optics onto the material surface. The intense heat melts, burns, or vaporizes the material while an assist gas (oxygen, nitrogen, or compressed air) blows away the molten residue. The cutting head moves along the programmed path, creating clean, precise edges.

Types of Laser Cutting

• CO₂ Laser — Best for non-metals (wood, acrylic, plastics, textiles) and mild steel. Wavelength 10.6μm.
• Fiber Laser — More efficient for metals. Cuts stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper. Lower operating cost.
• Nd:YAG/Nd:YVO₄ — Used for precision cutting and marking, especially in electronics.

Material Thickness Capabilities

Typical industrial laser cutters can handle: Mild steel up to 25mm, stainless steel up to 20mm, aluminum up to 15mm, copper/brass up to 8mm. Fiber lasers generally outperform CO₂ on reflective metals.

Advantages

• Narrow kerf width (0.1-0.3mm) — minimal material waste
• No tooling costs — ideal for prototyping and small batches
• Heat-affected zone (HAZ) is smaller than plasma or gas cutting
• Automated nesting software maximizes sheet utilization