Optimal Power Choices for Processing Different Materials

The book also offers practical suggestions and techniques for selecting the right power for processing different kinds of materials.The system provides a range of laser cutting and engraving settings for commonly used materials such as metal, plastic, and wood.By mastering these methods, the company can respond easily to the demands of complex processing.

Why is power selection important for the processing effect?

The power of the processing is like the heat when you are stir-frying: if it's too low, the ingredients won't cook through, and if it's too high, they'll burn.For instance, the power setting has a direct effect on the quality of the finished product and the life of the equipment in laser cutting or engraving.For example, when cutting stainless steel sheets, if the power is too low, the edges will be ragged, and if the power is too high, the metal sheet may be burned through.Choosing the right power not only saves time, but also saves material and electricity!

Power setting techniques for different types of materials.

Metal processing.

Metal processing usually requires a high power, but the actual number depends on the material and the thickness.For example:

- Stainless steel (1-3 mm): 1500-2500W, increase for thicker plates.

Aluminum: The high power of these lights can damage lenses, so it is recommended that they be combined with a nitrogen gas shield.

Brass: Set power to around 1000 watts and reduce speed to avoid splashing metal.

Plastic and acrylic processing.

This type of material is afraid of high temperatures, and if the power is too great it will melt and deform.Let me give you a concrete example.

- 3mm acrylic engraving: Use 40-60W power in high speed mode, and the edges are smooth with no burn marks.

PVC boards: Use a laser with a power output not exceeding 80 watts, and use a ventilation system to remove toxic gases.

Wood and leather processing.

Natural materials easily carbonize, so it is suggested that a low power setting be used with multiple passes.

Step 5: Engraving: Use a 30-watt laser to lightly engrave the outline, then a 50-watt laser to deepen the details.

Cutting leather: 20-30 watts of power are used to make quick sweeps, which can cut through the leather without leaving any burn marks.

Common problems and how to avoid them.

Why are my cuts never straight?

Eighty percent of the time, the problem is that the power and speed are mismatched. Remember this rule of thumb: "For thick materials, use low speed and high power; for thin materials, use high speed and low power.For instance, when cutting 2-mm-thick steel, the laser power must be set at 2500W and the cutting speed at 15mm / s.

What do you do when the equipment keeps going off?

This may be due to long-term overuse.Check the cleanliness of the lenses once a week. If the lenses are covered with dust, the actual power will be reduced, and you will be forced to adjust the parameters upwards, which can lead to a vicious circle that damages the machine.

Small tools for practical adjustments.

A testing card is the best investment--a metal / plastic testing card costs less than NT $ 10, and shows the effects of different power levels.The best way to learn about a new material is to cut a small sample.