In manufacturing facilities, laser cutting technology is essential. It has become a basic tool in various industries. You can use it to cut out small parts and gears. To understand what exactly this is, we should first know applications of laser cutting.
The reason that laser cutting has become popular is that it yields highly accurate and precise cuts. It is not possible with other cutting machinery. In addition to this, laser cutting wastes less material than other methods. Hence, it saves a lot of costs. Moreover, it has a low maintenance cost as you can easily find replacement parts. One can use this method to cut almost any type of material with varying thicknesses. It is why you can find a wide variety of laser-cut designs in the market.
Because of the reasons given above, laser cutting has various applications. Some of these are as follows:
Applications of Laser Cutting
Laser cutting involves the use of a laser to cut material. The laser heats the material, which melts it and results in a cut. Apart from automotive industries, laser cutting is also used in jewellery making, cutting small parts for electronic devices, etc. There are many facilities, such as Advanced Cutting Technology, that offer various types of laser cutting.
Here are a few applications of laser cutting in detail:
1. Automotive Industry
The laser can speed up the cutting process. It is the reason why it is used in the automotive industry. Through laser cutting, replicas can be made quickly. Laser cutting also helps in making dies.
2. Aerospace Industry
Laser cutting technology has been in use in the aerospace industry for several decades. Since laser cutting is highly accurate, it is a method used for cutting material. Aerospace designs require high precision for the safety of the plane, its pilot, and its passengers. Another reason why laser cutting is preferred is that it reduces material waste. It is also highly efficient and speeds up processes. In addition to using laser machinery for cutting material, it also aids in drilling holes and welding purposes.
3. Jewellery Cutting
One of the popular uses of laser cutting is in the jewellery industry. It is used for cutting rings and bracelets or any designs. Since it is precise in measurements, it can create intricate designs. Laser cutting can also make engravings on the jewellery piece.
4. Wooden Signs
Laser cutting also has an application in cutting wooden signs and even paper. These signs are for decorative purposes in homes, offices, restaurants, etc.
Drawbacks of Laser Cutting
Despite the apparent advantages, there are a few drawbacks of laser cutting. The efficiency of laser cutting largely depends on the type of material. In some cases, the laser may burn the material instead of cutting it. Laser cutting is also not suitable for some metal materials, including copper and aluminum. Likewise, cutting plastic using lasers is more expensive than other methods. When the laser heats the plastic, it leads to harmful gas emissions. Hence, when cutting plastic using a laser, you must ventilate the room properly. In addition to this, laser cutting is dangerous and requires experienced personnel to get the job done.
Conclusion
Laser cutting finds applications in various industries. From aerospace to jewellery, it offers precise cuts and engravings. Hence, many manufacturers are incorporating it into the manufacturing process.
