What is Laser Cutting?
Laser cutters can be found in most maker spaces, homes of hobbyists, and manufacturers, but what exactly is laser cutting?
The method of laser cutting is an amazing process because it quickly transforms complex 2D shapes/images displayed on a screen into reality.
Basically, laser cutting is the process of using computer software and a high powered laser to cut, etch, or engrave various materials such as wood, acrylic, and many others.
What is a Laser Cutter Machine?
A laser cutter is a machine that uses a focused beam of light to melt/burn materials, resulting in a clean-cut or etching on the surface.
Typically, the goal is to cut shapes out of a flat piece of material under an inch thick. Alternatively, engraving/etching can be used to burn material to create an image.
Why Are Laser Cutting Machines Used Frequently?
Laser cutters are typically used in industrial settings, but thanks to its relatively low cost and simple technology, it is becoming more common in schools and homes.
If you’ve ever heard of a maker space, chances are they have one there!
Alternatives such as waterjet and plasma cutting aren’t as commercially popular because of their high cost and complexity. However, they are more popular in the manufacturing world.
The most widely used type is a CO2 laser cutter because of the wide range of materials that it can be used on. These are typically the kind that you would find on websites selling commercial laser cutters.
What is a CO2 Laser?
Why is it called a CO2 laser? Initially, I thought it was strange that a laser machine used to cut objects was named after Carbon Dioxide; however, it’s called a Carbon Dioxide laser because it’s a gas laser. All you really need to know is that running electricity through a tube of CO2 produces a very powerful beam of light.
The CO2 laser is also one of the most powerful types of lasers and most efficient, making it perfect for laser cutting.
Why Should I Use a Laser Cutter?
Laser cutters are used a lot in classrooms, maker spaces, and homes for several reasons such as:
- Enabling fast prototyping.
- Allowing a new medium for creative pieces.
- Teaching new skills.
If you join an online community centered around laser cutting, you will find that many people are using laser cutters to create interesting pieces of art.
On the other hand, some people are using it for business purposes, such as selling creative wedding invitations or personalizing common items.
Ultimately, there are endless opportunities that a laser cutter can be used for, as long as it includes cutting a thin piece of material.
My First “Attempt” at Laser Cutting
The first time I experienced using a laser cutter was in a high school design class when I was tasked with designing a flat-pack bowl holder.
The bowl holder could only be fully assembled by using slots, so adhesives and fasteners were not allowed.
Of course, with all of my excitement, I ended up going overboard with the complexity and not completing the project at all.
Getting things to fit together perfectly without falling apart was a lot harder than I thought. In my head, I thought that everything would just magically come together.
Nonetheless, it was a very fond memory because it led me to my passion for making. The realization that I could easily laser cut so many things was so fascinating.
In fact, later that year I used a laser cutter to design an intricately decorated ukelele stand.
How Does a Laser Cutter Work?
Although using a laser beam to melt something sounds like a sci-fi concept from Star Wars, the technology is very real.
A CO2 laser is produced in a CO2 laser tube (appropriately named) where gases reside, such as nitrogen, hydrogen, and (you guessed it) carbon dioxide.
The science gets very complicated from here. All you need to know is that the electricity is passed through the tube, exciting the gas particles, producing a beam of light.
A series of mirrors then direct the beam of light into a lens (like a magnifying glass) that turns the light into a focused laser, capable of cutting whatever we desire.
The lens is moved around on a carriage in the x and y plane, allowing any 2D shapes to be cut.
Do You Need a Laser Cutter Machine?
Advancements in laser cutting technology have given us smaller and more effective laser cutters compared to what was available years ago.
Thousands of people at home own laser cutters from small desktop laser cutters to larger machines such as K-40 or Epilog laser cutters.
Laser cutters are successfully serving the needs of creative people at home (especially during the current Coronavirus pandemic).
You can use a laser cutter machine for:
- Art and sculptures
- Personalized gifts
- Home decor
- Gadget and tool making
- DIY projects
- Engraved cards
- And many more…
In my biased opinion, I would say yes, you do need a laser cutter if you’re creative, innovative, or enjoy doing DIY projects.
But Is it Difficult to Use a Laser Cutter?
Setting up a laser and getting running is very easy if you choose the right one. Some are more difficult than others because they have to be assembled.
Learning to use a laser cutter effectively is easier than it has ever been before.
Firstly, consumerism forces manufacturers to make laser cutters easier for makers like us to get into. Laser cutters wouldn’t sell well if they were hard to use.
Secondly, the growing popularity of laser cutting has resulted in a lot of online communities created by dedicated makers who are willing to help those interested in using laser cutters.
Essentially, if you have a problem during any step of the way, there is a wealth of information online that can help you!
Is Laser Cutting Safe?
Anything used incorrectly can be dangerous. Knives, blenders and electric sockets can all be dangerous when used inappropriately. Laser cutters are no exception.
When used properly with safety precautions, laser cutting poses minimal risk.
To ensure you are aware of the risks and safety precautions of laser cutting, make sure you check out my in-depth article on How to Laser Cut Safely!
Final Thoughts…
Laser cutting is such a powerful tool for all types of people today, and for years to come. If you’re interested in starting a journey in laser cutting or making, consider checking out some great Budget Laser Cutters for a low-cost investment into the world of possibilities that laser cutting provides!
Feel free to ask any other questions that I was not able to answer in the comments below!