Laser Parameters for Different Materials (Part 3)

Different materials require different parameters for laser processing. The power, speed, frequency, etc. of lasers used for metal, plastic or glass vary significantly.It shares practical techniques that will help you avoid problems such as burning and cracking, and improve the results of your carving and cutting. It is suitable for beginners and for those who want to improve their skills.

Why do the parameters need to be adjusted when the materials are different?

Different materials respond differently to heat, so there is no single laser processing method that is good for all materials.For example, metals conduct heat quickly, so if you don ’ t have enough power you can ’ t cut them. Plastics have low melting points, so if you ’ re not careful you ’ ll melt the edges. Glass is very brittle, and if the parameters are wrong it will just crack.If you want to save time and materials, you have to get to know their temperaments.

Setting parameters for laser processing of metals.

The key is to be accurate, quick, and powerful.

How do you adjust the parameters to get the right result?

For common stainless steel, we recommend setting the power at 70-80 %, the speed at 300-500 mm / s, and the frequency at 20-30 kHz.If it's a highly reflective material such as aluminum, remember to apply an anti-reflective coating first, and then adjust the power up another 10 %.

What should you pay attention to when cutting?

Cutting metal requires a high-power continuous mode, and an assist gas (such as oxygen) must be added. To cut 1 mm stainless steel, the power must be at least 150 W, and the speed must be slowed to 5-10 mm / s.If you're having trouble with the edges turning black, try using a nitrogen gas shield.

How to avoid the pitfalls of plastics.

Plastic is most afraid of high temperatures, and if the parameters are not set just right, it will smoke and deform in a matter of seconds.

Acrylic cutting skills.

Don't use full power! At 60 % power and 600 mm / s medium speed, the cut is both bright and straight.It is more reliable to cut thick boards in layers than to try to cut through in one go.

ABS and PVC are two materials that are commonly used in the production of plastic toys and other products.

This type of plastic is prone to releasing harmful gases, so good ventilation is essential.

A laser is used to engrave the glass.

Glass processing is like walking a tightrope; parameters must be handled with care.

How does one go about setting parameters for the carving?

The low power (20-30 %) and high frequency (50kHz and up) are like "tickling" the glass.The effect is more pronounced on darker glasses, while lighter glasses should be coated with a base layer first.

Tips for preventing cracks.

Before processing, the glass should be kept in the refrigerator for half an hour to reduce thermal stress.When cutting round patterns, it is best to slow the speed of rotation, because sudden stops and turns are most likely to cause the edges to break.

Three things to do before you go to war.

1. Try it out on the scraps: Don't bet your whole piece of material on one roll of the dice. It's safest to cut a small sample from the scraps.

2. Record parameter combinations: Put a Post-It note on the machine with the parameter settings, so you can just use them next time.

3. Don't scrimp on cleaning and maintenance: If dust gets on your lens, no matter how good your settings are, you're out of luck.