Introduction

As laser cutting technology advances rapidly, laser cutting machines play a unique and indispensable role across various industries. Given the distinct characteristics of different materials, choosing the appropriate laser cutting machine is paramount for enhancing production efficiency and ensuring cutting quality. This article aims to guide the selection process based on the specific material being processed.

Structural Steel

1.Cutting Gas

When using oxygen for cutting, optimal results are achieved. However, this may result in slight oxidation at the cutting edges.

For sheets with a thickness of up to 4mm, high-pressure cutting using nitrogen as the processing gas can prevent oxidation.

For sheets with a thickness exceeding 10mm, using special pallets for the laser and applying oil to the workpiece surface during processing yields better results.

2.Laser Power

Choose the appropriate laser power based on the thickness and material of the steel sheets.

Higher power generally increases cutting speed, but factors like cost and equipment maintenance should be considered.

3.Precision Requirements

Given the high precision required for cutting structural steel, opt for a laser cutting machine equipped with a high-precision control system.

Stainless Steel

1.Cutting Gas

Cutting stainless steel necessitates the use of oxygen. Using nitrogen can result in edge oxidation and burr-free edges.

Coating the sheet surface with an oil film enhances perforation without compromising processing quality.

2.Laser Power

Similar to structural steel, choose the laser power based on the thickness and material of the stainless steel sheets.

3.Stability

Due to stainless steel’s high reflectivity and thermal conductivity, choose a laser cutting machine with high stability and precise control.

Aluminum and Aluminum Alloys

1.Alloy Type

Different alloy types exhibit varying physical and chemical properties. Choose a laser cutting machine suitable for the specific alloy type.

2.Cutting Gas

Cutting aluminum and its alloys requires the use of oxygen or nitrogen as the processing gas.

Pure aluminum is challenging to cut due to its high purity; a cutting system with a “reflection absorption” device is necessary.

3.Laser Power

Choose the laser power based on the thickness and material of the aluminum sheets.

4.Precision Requirements

Given the typically high precision requirements for cutting aluminum and its alloys, select a sheet laser cutting machine with a high-precision control system.

Titanium and Titanium Alloys

1.Processing Gas

Cutting titanium and its alloys requires the use of argon and nitrogen as processing gases, with other parameters referencing nickel-chromium steel.

2.Precision Requirements

Due to the high physical properties of titanium and titanium alloys, choose a laser cutting machine with a high-precision control system to ensure cutting quality and safety.

3.Professional Operators

Given the special characteristics of titanium and its alloys, it is advisable to have professional operators handle the operation and maintenance of the laser cutting machine to ensure safety and production efficiency.

Conclusion

Selecting the right laser cutting machine involves a careful consideration of material-specific requirements, ensuring optimal results and efficient production across diverse applications.