Laser Cutting

Written By Jacky Wan

Laser Cutting is a process that uses a high-power laser to vaporize materials to create cuts or various types of etchings in a 2D pattern. The machine is equipped with a motion control system that follows the CNC or G-code of a pattern to be cut or etched onto the surface. The laser cutter uses advanced optics to direct the laser beam onto the material being cut. It is possible to cut incredibly detailed patterns with a great degree of accuracy, provided the material being cut is of uniform thickness, and all the points on the surface are at a uniform distance from the laser head. Various types of materials can be cut on the laser cutter, including acrylic, wood, rubber, cardboard, leather, etc.

Cons

  • Only 2D patterns can be cut

  • Materials must be flat and of uniform thickness

  • Risk of fires, especially with materials that are incompatible with the laser cutter

  • Natural materials like wood may be unreliable in terms of getting accurate cuts

  • Needs air filter and fume extractor for safe operation

  • Noisy operation

Pros

  • Wide variety of materials can be cut

  • Engrave and Cut in the same process

  • Low cost

  • Almost no post-processing required

  • Fast turnaround relative to 3D printing

  • Easy setup (2D vector .PDF)


Common uses for this process:

  • Prototyping

  • Packaging design cutouts

  • Marking or Engraving images onto materials

  • Signs

  • Artwork

  • Architecture Projects

  • Board game pieces, tiles and boards

Special properties only available on 3D scanning

  • Cleanly cut natural materials like wood, cotton

  • Fast turnaround time

Jacky Wan
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