How to choose the laser cutting machine

When it comes to buying a laser cutting machine it is important to understand the technical characteristics and processing capabilities. In fact, the price often varies depending on power, speed and other factors, whether it is machines for private use or for professional lasers for industrial production.

Let's see together the types and parameters to be considered to be able to orient yourself in the choice of the most suitable CNC laser cutting machine.

Types of laser cutting machines

There are different types of laser cutting machines on the market:

gas

gas (usually CO2, nitrogen, helium, argon), generally used for thick and very hard materials.

carbon dioxide

used for excellent cutting quality even on large sizes and thicknesses, especially for steel (even multilayer).

fibre

mainly used for cutting non-conductive metals such as copper and brass. It also requires little maintenance while maintaining a high processing speed.

diode

ensures low consumption and maximum performance especially in the case of reflective surfaces.

Technical characteristics and factors to consider

There are laser cutting machines at fairly low prices, usually used by hobbyists, craftsmen or laboratories with small-medium-sized activities. On the other hand, with regard to laser cutting machines used for industrial purposes, the investment is considerable and therefore must be carefully evaluated. 

In both cases, the technical characteristics to be taken into account in the event of a purchase vary slightly. 

Speed

This aspect can be particularly relevant especially in the case of medium and large companies, where processing speed is essential. Usually, the estimated time for some machining operations can also be found in the machine manual. This data can facilitate comparison with other machines and help in the choice. 

Energy 

Consider energy use both to be able to calculate energy consumption and to make sure the machine is fit for purpose. In fact, the estimate of the energy consumed can be an indicator of the machine's capabilities. Laser machines that consume between 25 and 50 Watts are usually machines intended for very simple jobs, as opposed to machines that have higher consumption and have been designed for more complex machining. 

Working area and size of the machine

Check the dimensions you have available to position the laser machine. 

Obviously professional machines are more cumbersome than those for crafts and hobbies, so make sure you have the space you need. Also consider that the machine must be manned during start-up, so it is also necessary to provide space around the area for one or more operators. Finally, it is necessary to evaluate the possible space for additional machines if you want to create a real processing line.

Weight

In case the machine should be positioned on a raised floor or in any case not on the ground floor, carefully evaluate how much weight is able to hold up the support in question. Laser machines can be very heavy and this is also an aspect not to be underestimated.

Conclusions 

In order to be able to focus on the purchase of a cutting machine, it is important to consider technical characteristics and factors that can affect production and working spaces.

For this reason, it is necessary not only to prepare the area in advance, but also to consider what type of materials it is planned to work with, since depending on the type of machine some materials may be more suitable than others.