What Thickness Can a Laser Cut?

Laser Cutting Thickness Limits for Different Materials:

• Kapton: Kapton, a polyimide film, can typically be laser cut up to thicknesses ranging from 0.001 to 0.005 inches (25 to 125 microns). This material is often used in electronics, aerospace, and automotive industries for its excellent thermal and electrical insulation properties.
• PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone): PEEK is a high-performance thermoplastic with exceptional mechanical and chemical resistance. Laser cutting of PEEK can be achieved up to thicknesses of around 0.2 inches (5 millimeters), depending on the specific grade and manufacturer specifications.
• SOMABLACK: SOMABLACK is a proprietary material known for its high thermal conductivity and absorption of stray light. It can typically be laser cut up to thicknesses of 0.12 inches (3 millimeters) or more, depending on the precise formulation and application requirements.
• Stainless Steel: Laser cutting stainless steel is feasible across a wide range of thicknesses, from thin sheets around 0.012 inches (0.3 millimeters) to thicker plates exceeding 1 inch (25 millimeters), depending on the laser power, focusing optics, and the specific alloy composition of the stainless steel.
• Aluminum: Aluminum is commonly laser cut across thicknesses ranging from 0.04 inches (1 millimeter) to 0.4 inches (10 millimeters), although thicker materials can also be processed with specialized equipment and higher laser powers.

What factors affect the thickness a laser can cut?

• Material Type and Properties: Different materials have varying absorption coefficients and thermal conductivities, affecting their suitability for laser cutting and the achievable thicknesses.
• Laser Power: Higher laser powers allow for cutting through thicker materials. The power requirement varies depending on the material’s properties, such as reflectivity and thermal conductivity.
• Beam Focus and Quality: The quality of the laser beam and its focus influence the precision and efficiency of cutting. A tightly focused beam enables cleaner cuts and better penetration through thicker materials.
• Assist Gasses: The type and flow rate of assist gasses (such as oxygen, nitrogen, or air) affect the cutting process by aiding in material removal and preventing excessive heat buildup.
• Cutting Speed: The speed at which the laser beam moves across the material surface affects the heat input and the overall cutting efficiency, especially for thicker materials.

What lasers cut non-metallic materials?

• CO2 Lasers: Carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers are commonly used for cutting non-metallic materials such as plastics, woods, fabrics, and composites. These lasers operate at wavelengths suited for efficient absorption by organic materials.
• Fiber Lasers: While primarily used for metal cutting, fiber lasers can also process some non-metallic materials, particularly ceramics, thanks to their high power density and precision.
• UV Lasers: Ultraviolet (UV) lasers are suitable for precise cutting of materials like certain polymers, ceramics, semiconductor materials, and more, due to their shorter wavelengths and minimal thermal effects on the surrounding material.

By considering these factors and understanding the capabilities of different laser systems, manufacturers can optimize their laser cutting processes for various materials and thicknesses, achieving high precision and efficiency in their operations.