Laser cutting is the process of turning a 2D file into a physical object by directing the output of a high-powered laser beam through optics onto a small zone of the material, the beam can then cut and engrave it with high precision. This process can be performed on a variety of materials. The laser cutting process can cut parts with a thickness of up to 10mm! You can use a 2D vector file for the laser cutting process, made with vector graphics software. Don’t worry! It is not necessary to have amazing skills in design to create a file for laser cutting.
The aim of Laser Engraving is to engrave a specific picture or logo onto a selected material. It is a subtractive manufacturing method. However, before the actual engraving process can begin, the machine needs a file sent from a computer to the machine’s controller, which then positions the laser. When the Laser Engraving process starts, the beam creates a high heat that burns or evaporates the surface according to the image from the file. Two different forms should be distinguished: line engraving and surface engraving. While the first one uses vector images to follow paths or lines, the second vaporizes the material to create an image into the material or give the design a 3D-like impression.
If rapid production of your company’s product line is important, laser cutting wood can be a great solution. Whereas traditional manufacturing methods are not very efficient when it comes to precisely parting or cutting a specific wooden area – which can lead to splintering or an uncomfortable surface outline – a laser system for cutting is on the other hand very effective but most importantly, very precise. Laser cutting is easy, and precise, saves material due to its precision and it can cut a wide range of different parts, thicknesses, and materials.
A different variety of materials can be used for laser cutting. For example acrylic, wood or cardboard. For now, we will focus on laser cutting wood with Plywood / MDF. The process of laser cutting wood involves again the use of a highly powerful laser that focuses on a part of the wooden material. The density of the laser leads to heat – allowing to partially melt the specific area and outlining. In most cases, a computer will direct the beam of the laser by tracing a pre-programmed path.