Laser Parameters for Glass of Different Thicknesses

The table provides parameters for laser cutting glass of different thicknesses, ranging from 3 to 20 mm. It also explains the settings for the key parameters of power, speed, and frequency.A link to a downloadable table of specifications is provided at the end of the article.

Why is a laser parameter chart needed?

When cutting glass with a laser, the most difficult thing is getting the parameters right--too much power and the glass will burn, too slow and efficiency will suffer.Especially friends who are just beginning to use laser equipment, it may take dozens of tries before they get the hang of it.With this table you have the master's bag of tricks in your hands. You can see at a glance what parameters are appropriate for different thicknesses of material, and you can at least save two rolls of test material.

Practical parameters for glass of different thicknesses.

These parameters are based on a commonly used CO2 laser (80W-150W). You can fine-tune them according to the state of your own machine.

3-5 mm ultra-thin glass.

This kind of glass is as fragile as potato chips, so it's best to set the power to 60-70 % and the speed to 25 mm / s or more.The key is to use the high-frequency pulse mode and set the frequency to 500 Hz. This way the cut will be fine and neat, and you needn't worry about the edges cracking.

The thickness of the glass is between 6 and 12 millimeters.

If the thickness of the wall is within the normal range of 100-150 mm, the power can be turned up to 75-85 %.The most reliable speed is 18-22 mm / sec, and remember to calibrate the focus before starting each session.There's a little trick: If you spray a mist of alcohol onto the cut surface, it can effectively reduce the heat-affected zone.

Thicker glass (15-20mm).

When cutting such "big blocks" it is necessary to pay special attention to the layering of the work. The first time you use 85 % power to outline the shape, and the second time you reduce to 70 % to make the depth cut.It is suggested that the cutting speed be adjusted to 12 mm / s and compressed air be used to blow away the slag, otherwise the blade may become clogged with carbon halfway through the cut.

A guide to using parameters to avoid pitfalls.

Don't put too much faith in set values.

The same parameters may produce results 20 % different in a dry northern environment compared to a humid southern one.I would recommend doing a small-scale pilot test first, especially in the rainy season, to adjust the power appropriately and prevent the glass from shattering.

Maintenance of equipment affects results.

If you've ever had a situation where the laser parameters are clearly correct but the cutting doesn't work, first check the life of the laser tube and the cleanliness of the lens.The actual power of an aging laser tube may be only 70 % of its original, while dirty lenses can cut efficiency by 15 %.

How can we get a complete list of parameters?

Click on the blue word "Download" below to download an Excel spreadsheet with 22 sets of commonly used parameters. The file also includes adjustment factors for special materials such as laminated glass and tempered glass.We recommend printing it out and sticking it next to your equipment.