Laser Cutting

Gate cutting

Lasers can cut materials by melting or evaporating a target surface, thus producing a cut. Generally, non-laser cutting machines require a die or blade. These contact-based methods run the risk of distortion during processing, especially for thin or fragile parts. Laser cutting is non-contact, so the risk of distortion is minimal. This makes laser cutting suitable for processing targets like thin plates and films.

Laser cutting should be done with a high-powered laser to prevent damage. Two different lasers can be used for cutting; a CO₂ laser or a hybrid laser. Taking advantage of the strengths of each laser when laser cutting is critical to success. Using a CO₂ laser is better for the general processing of film and plastic, while a hybrid YVO₄ laser is better for the thin processing of metals. These laser types can be used separately for different projects or together in one project for different parts of a material.

The 3-Axis CO₂ Laser Marker ML-Z Series is one of KEYENCE’s laser marking machines that can be used for laser cutting. The laser processes CO₂ in a tube and then generates plasma between a reflexive mirror and an output coupler. The plasma then hits materials, and the material absorbs the light.

The ML-Z Series uses 3-Axis technology and a CO₂ laser to cut surfaces smoothly. The ML-Z can do a variety of cutting, such as sheathing cutting, gate cutting, film cutting, and hole cutouts. With the Z-MAP function, any shape can be imported into the laser marker, even if it is unconventional.

The thin beam model of the ML-Z has a smaller spot diameter than conventional lasers or die and blades. Because of the small spot diameter, the ML-Z can use greater power density. In turn, the power density cuts materials seamlessly without distortion or ragged marks. Additionally, the ML-Z’s short wavelength allows for even higher absorption, which is especially necessary for materials like resin.

The 3-Axis Hybrid MD-X Series is another one of KEYENCE’s laser marking machines that can be used for cutting. The MD-X uses 3-Axis technology with a fiber and a YVO₄ laser.

The YVO₄ laser provides a high-quality beam, while the fiber laser provides a high-output beam. These lasers combine to make a high-powered laser that processes materials seamlessly and efficiently.

Because the MD-X is a hybrid laser, the peak power is twice that of a conventional YVO₄ laser. The high peaked power with the short pulse minimizes heat damage. The minimal heat damage results in damage-free processing with sensitive or thin materials.

The MD-X can process a variety of materials, such as resin, metals, and thin film.

KEYENCE’s laser cutting machines use patented systems with features like the 3-Axis control and autofocus to make cutting more efficient and precise.

The 3-Axis control reaches an area of 300mm x 300mm, which is optimal for large production. Since the 3-Axis control standardizes the target area, the laser cutter can work on a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials without inconsistency.

The autofocus technology allows for efficiency as it removes the need for physical realignment and tracks the positional and focal deviation of each target. While tracking, the marker automatically adjusts to ensure consistency for manufacturing. The focal distance adjustment allows for flexibility with changes in product sizes, 3D shapes, and material inconsistencies.

The medical device industry frequently uses stainless steel because of its anti-corrosive and biocompatible properties. However, steel’s hardness makes it a difficult metal to process with traditional cutting tools. The hardness makes cutting thin stainless steel, with contact-based methods, especially prone to producing scrap.

Laser cutting with a hybrid laser is powerful enough to take stainless steel past its melting point and produce a clean cut. Since lasers are precise and include flexible beams, laser cutting easily cuts intricate and clean designs for medical devices.

Aluminum is a popular metal for EVs because of its lightweight, recyclability, and conductivity. However, it is susceptible to thermal expansion and potential deformation if processed with too much force or heat.

Laser cutting aluminum is a protection against distorted aluminum. As a no-contact method with minimal heat transfer, laser cutting does not affect any part of the aluminum besides the target area. The precision of laser cutting also ensures that components are held to tight industry standards. A hybrid laser cutter machine is trustworthy for batteries and body components.

Film is susceptible to deformation from mishandling or sustained high temperature. Laser cutting combats this with less handling and minimal to no heat transfer for clean cuts. A CO₂ or UV laser cutter machine cuts film for bonding, stress absorption, and electronic assemblies without affecting the entire film.

When you cut paper/cardboard, there are multiple properties to consider. Moisture, grain, knots, friction, and stiffness are all barriers to getting a clean cut with a torch or saw. Paper/cardboard susceptibility to jagged edges is high if all factors aren’t considered.

Cutting with a CO₂ laser cutting machine does not have the same risks. Paper/cardboard absorbs the 10600 nm beam well and is cut cleanly without rough edges.