What Is the Maximum Thickness a Fiber Laser Can Cut?

Fiber lasers are becoming increasingly popular in the manufacturing industry for their precision, power, and speed when cutting materials. But what is the maximum thickness a fiber laser can cut? There is some confusion about the materials a fiber laser cutter can penetrate and how deep they can cut. Here, we clear up some confusion about a fiber laser cutter’s capabilities.

Refresher on How a Fiber Laser Cutting Machine Works

A fiber laser cutting machine uses a fiber-optic cable to deliver a concentrated beam of light to the material being cut. A laser diode generates laser light, which is channeled through the fibers and focused onto the workpiece through a lens in the machine’s head.

The intense heat produced by the laser beam melts or vaporizes the material in a highly precise and controlled manner. The machine uses computer numeric controls (CNC) to guide the laser beam along the desired cutting path.

A parallel jet of air is often used to blow away the molten material, leaving behind a clean, smooth cut. Fiber laser cutting machines are renowned for their efficiency, precision, and ability to cut a wide range of materials, from metals to plastics.

Maximum Thickness a Fiber Laser Can Cut

Laser cutters have a reputation for working best on thinner materials. But the maximum thickness that a fiber laser can cut is determined by the power of the laser and the material being cut. Generally speaking, most fiber lasers on the market today can cut metals that are 12–13 mm thick. However, there are various factors that can affect the maximum thickness a fiber laser is able to cut, such as material type and the quality of the laser beam. A more powerful, 10kw laser cutter can go through up to 30mm of stainless steel.

A fiber laser is capable of cutting a wide range of metals, including stainless steel, mild steel, aluminum, copper, and brass.

Best Applications for a Fiber Laser Cutting Machine

Fiber laser cutting machines can be used for sheet metal fabrication, automotive parts manufacturing, industrial machinery production, and aerospace engineering. Fiber lasers are also well suited for laser engraving or marking on metals and some ceramics.

Fiber lasers are powerful, precise, and fast tools for cutting materials of all kinds. The maximum thickness that a fiber laser can cut is determined by the power of the laser and the material being cut. Contact Mac-Tech for more information on fiber laser tube cutters and other types of fiber laser cutters and their abilities. We can help you select a machine that will get through the materials you work with most often.