What is 3D laser cutting

The 3D laser is used to cut 2D and 3D pieces such as tubes or profiles for the industrial production of components or valuable handmade products.

Whether it is semi-finished products or finished products that have undergone bending, moulding or deep-drawing, 3D laser cutting is the most suitable solution for modifying shapes and maintaining cutting quality.

In this article we will see how laser cutting works and what types of machining it allows.

How laser cutting works

The 3D laser can operate in two ways: via a fibre laser source, or via CO2 gas. In both cases, the 3D laser is also able to execute large shapes, taking into account the two-dimensionality or three-dimensionality of the final product. 

Thanks to the machine's ability to work on 5 or 6 axes and the help of a robotic arm capable of moving the pieces during machining, 3D laser cutting is able to work on much more complex geometries than traditional lasers.

This type of machining allows several advantages compared to other cutting techniques:

• quality of the cutting edge;
• maintenance of the cutting surface unchanged;
• absence of subsequent processing;
• versatility and flexibility of processing;
• reduced processing times.

Therefore, 3D laser cutting is not only able to handle complex shapes and operate on different axes efficiently, but also guarantees a high cutting quality so as not to require subsequent processing and reduce delivery times to the customer.

What can be cut with the 3D laser

3D laser cutting is a technology that allows precise cuts to be made on a wide range of three-dimensional materials. Common materials that can be cut with the 3D laser include:

Metals

3D laser cutting is widely used for cutting various types of metals, including stainless steel, aluminium, brass, copper, and titanium. It is particularly effective in the metalworking industry, where precision and high-quality finishing are essential.

Plastic

3D laser can cut a wide range of plastics, such as acrylic, polycarbonate, PVC, polystyrene and many more. This type of cutting is widely used in the printing industry and in the production of prototypes.

Wood

3D laser cutting is also applicable to wood, including softwoods such as plywood and MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard), as well as harder woods such as solid wood. It is used in the production of furniture, artistic objects and in woodworking.

Fabric

3D lasers can be used to cut fabric quickly and accurately. This is particularly useful in the textile industry for the production of clothing, curtains, upholstery and technical textile materials.

Glass

3D laser can also be used to cut glass, but it is important to emphasize that the process requires special attention and expertise. It is used to create complex and precise shapes in the glass art sector and in the production of bespoke glassware.

In which sectors 3D laser cutting is used

Manufacturi.ng industry

3D laser cutting is used in the production of components and parts for machinery, automobiles, aircraft and other industrial equipment.

Design and prototyping

Due to its precision and flexibility, 3D laser cutting is widely used in the field of design and rapid prototyping. It allows you to create models and prototypes with high precision and detail.

Clothing industry

In the textile industry, 3D laser cutting is used to cut fabrics for clothing, footwear and accessories. It can create complex shapes and precise cuts without the need for physical models.

Crafts and decoration

In the crafts and decoration sector, 3D laser cutting is used to create artistic objects, custom decorations, engravings and jewellery.

Medical sector

3D laser cutting finds application in the manufacture of medical devices, such as prostheses, components for diagnostic equipment and surgical instruments.

These are just some of the main sectors, in fact, since the 3D laser is highly versatile in terms of materials and processing, it can be used for a wide range of projects. 

Conclusions

3D laser cutting is a fairly recent technology that has, however, established itself very quickly in different production departments. 

In addition, its machining speed and high cutting precision have allowed the laser to be used on many types of materials.