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Laser cutting technology, with its precision and efficiency, has revolutionized metal fabrication. When utilizing a 1kW laser cutter, the cutting parameters—such as speed, power, gas type, and focus—must be finely tuned for each material to achieve the best results. Below is an extended overview of how these parameters vary across different metals, including carbon steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and copper, accompanied by a parameter table to guide your adjustments for optimal cutting performance.
- Carbon Steel Cutting: Carbon steel, known for its compatibility with laser cutting, can be processed up to a thickness of about 10mm. Achieving a clean cut involves finding the perfect equilibrium between laser power and cutting speed to reduce dross formation.
- Aluminum Cutting: Despite aluminum’s reflective nature and thermal conductivity, efficient cutting is possible for thicknesses up to 3mm by optimizing cutting speed. This adjustment helps prevent the accumulation of molten material, although the material’s reflectiveness requires careful handling to protect the laser system.
- Stainless Steel Cutting: Stainless steel up to 5mm thick can be cleanly cut by moderating laser power and adjusting speed for a polished finish. Nitrogen assist gas is used to prevent oxidation and ensure an oxide-free edge.
- Copper Cutting: Cutting copper, highly reflective and thermally conductive, demands precise focus, slower speeds, and initiation strategies such as starting at an edge or pre-drilling a hole to effectively manage cuts in up to 2mm thicknesses.
| Material | Thickness (mm) | Speed (m/min) | Gas | Power (%) | Focus Length (mm) | Pressure (bar) | Nozzle |
| Carbon Steel | 1 | 7-9 | O2 | 100 | 2 | 4.5 | 1.5 Double |
| 2 | 4-5 | 2 | 4 | 1.5 Double | |||
| 3 | 3-3.5 | 3 | 3 | 1.5 Double | |||
| 4 | 2.2-2.6 | 3 | 0.8 | 2.0 Double | |||
| 5 | 1.8-2.1 | 3 | 0.8 | 2.0 Double | |||
| 6 | 1.6-1.7 | 3 | 0.8 | 2.0 Double | |||
| 8 | 1.0-1.2 | 3 | 0.6 | 2.0 Double | |||
| 10 | 0.8-1 | 3 | 0.6 | 2.0 Double | |||
| 12 | 0.6-0.7 | 3 | 0.6 | 2.5 Double | |||
| Stainless Steel | 1 | 30-34 | N2 | 100 | -2 | 20 | 1.5 Single |
| 2 | 6-8 | -2 | 20 | 2.0 Single | |||
| 3 | 3-3.5 | -3 | 20 | 2.0 Single | |||
| 4 | 1.6-1.8 | -3 | 20 | 2.5 Single | |||
| 5 | 1-1.2 | -3 | 20 | 3.0 Single | |||
| Aluminum | 1 | 15-17 | N2 | 100 | -1 | 20 | 2.0 Single |
| 2 | 6-8 | -1.5 | 20 | 2.0 Single | |||
| 3 | 2.8-3.3 | -2 | 20 | 2.5 Single | |||
| 4 | 0.6-0.8 | -2 | 20 | 2.5 Single | |||
| Brass | 1 | 12-14 | N2 | 100 | -1 | 20 | 2.0 Single |
| 2 | 5-7 | -1 | 20 | 2.0 Single | |||
| 3 | 1.2-1.8 | -2 | 20 | 2.0 Single | |||
| 4 | 0.6-.7 | -2 | 20 | 2.0 Single | |||
| Copper | 1 | 9-11 | 02 | 100 | 1 | 20 | 2.0 Single |
| 2 | 3-4 | -1 | 20 | 2.0 Single | |||
| 3 | 1-1.3 | -1.5 | 20 | 2.0 Single |
Parameter Table for 1kW Laser Cutting:
This table provides foundational settings that may need adjustment based on the specific laser cutter model, material grade, and desired quality. Techniques like pulsing the laser or adjusting the beam’s focal length can also impact cutting outcomes. Achieving optimal results with a 1kW laser cutter not only relies on the equipment’s specifications but also on the operator’s skill in fine-tuning these parameters. Experimentation within recommended guidelines is often key to identifying the best settings for each material and cutting task.
