Laser cutting is a manufacturing technique that allows materials to be cut with incredible precision using a concentrated beam of light. It is used in sectors as varied as architecture, engineering, advertising and product design. Did you know that not all laser cuts are the same? Let's take a look at how this technology works and what types of laser cutting exist, such as CO2 laser cutting or 2D cutting.
How does laser cutting work?
Laser cutting is based on concentrating a high intensity beam of light on a very small spot of a material. The heat it generates is so high that it melts, burns or vaporises the material, separating it with clean, precise cuts. All this is controlled by computer-aided design (CAD) software, allowing parts with very complex shapes or fine details to be made.
Types of laser cutting
Within the world of laser cutting, there are several types depending on the technology used. The most common are:
- CO₂ laser cuttingOne of the most popular methods, especially for non-metallic materials such as wood, cardboard, methacrylate (acrylic), fabrics or plastics. It uses carbon dioxide gas to generate the laser beam, achieving precise cuts and high quality finishes.
- Fibre laser cuttingMore oriented to metal cutting. It is very fast and efficient, ideal for materials such as steel or aluminium.
- Nd:YAG laser cuttingUsed in industrial applications requiring heavy-duty cutting or welding, such as aerospace or medical.
What is 2D laser cutting?
2D laser cutting is a type of cutting that works in two dimensions, i.e. on a plane. It focuses on defining contours and shapes from a sheet of material, such as a wooden board or a methacrylate sheet. It is ideal for manufacturing flat parts, posters, templates, prototypes, decorations or models, with great speed and precision.
At Additium 3D, for instance, we work with 2D CO₂ laser cutting in formats up to 1400 x 900 mmoffering impeccable finishes in both cutting and engraving.
Which materials can be cut with CO2 lasers?
The CO2 laser is extremely versatile and can work with a wide variety of materials. Some examples:
- WoodIdeal for creative projects, decoration, models or customised furniture.
- CardboardPerfect for packaging, prototypes or architectural models.
- Methacrylate (Acrylic)Widely used in signage, signage and decorative products.
- Fabrics and paperFor artistic or textile design projects.
- Engineering plasticsFor technical and industrial applications.
In addition, CO2 laser cutting also allows metal engravingopening even more the range of possibilities to personalise pieces.
Advantages of laser cutting
Why is laser cutting so widely used? Here are some of its main advantages:
- Maximum precisionIt allows very fine details that would be impossible with other techniques.
- High quality finishesThe edges remain smooth and do not need to be retouched.
- Speed: The process is fast and efficient, ideal for urgent projects.
- Flexibility: It is possible to create single pieces as well as small or large series.
- Cost reductionThe fact that no specific tools such as moulds are required means that production costs are significantly reduced.
Laser cutting applications
Laser cutting has applications in a wide range of sectors:
- Industry and manufacturing
- Architecture and construction
- Advertising and signage
- Art and decoration
- Education and science sector
- Rapid prototyping
Whether you need a functional part or a unique decorative element, laser cutting offers a fast, accurate and cost-effective solution.
