Fiber or CO2, which is right for you?
The wavelength difference between fiber and CO2 lasers directly influences their effectiveness in cutting different materials. Fiber lasers are more suited for precise and efficient metal cutting, while CO2 lasers offer greater versatility across various materials.
Fiber Laser Cutters: These are ideal for most metal-cutting applications and the only choice for many reflective metals.
CO2 Laser Cutters: Although limited to thinner steels (up to 14ga), the HP-Series can also cut and engrave wood, acrylic, leather, and more.
What are the differences?
Fiber Laser Cutters:
- Wavelength: 1.06 micrometers (1,060 nanometers).
- Interaction with Metals: Metals, including reflective metals like gold, silver, and brass, readily absorb this wavelength, making fiber lasers highly efficient for metal cutting.
- Heat Affected Zone (HAZ): The shorter wavelength allows for a very small focus diameter, resulting in higher intensity at the focal point and a smaller heat affected zone.
- Efficiency: Better wavelength absorption provides faster cutting speeds and lower power consumption than CO2 lasers.
CO2 Laser Cutters:
- Wavelength: 10.6 micrometers (10,600 nanometers)
- Interaction with Metals: Metals do not absorb the longer wavelength of CO2 lasers as efficiently as the shorter fiber laser wavelength. This can lead to more significant heat diffusion in the material and potentially rougher edges or thicker kerf in the cut metal.
- Material Versatility: Although metal cutting is limited to stainless and carbon steel, their longer wavelength can also cut and engrave non-metal materials, such as wood, acrylic, glass, and fabric, which absorb this wavelength.
Boss Laser’s metal cutting machines represent a pinnacle of precision and innovation, crafted to meet the diverse needs of professionals and hobbyists alike. Embodying the company’s commitment to excellence, these machines offer advanced laser technology for cutting a variety of metals with unparalleled accuracy. Ideal for both intricate design work and robust industrial applications, they reflect Boss Laser’s dedication to providing solutions that empower creativity and efficiency. Each machine is a testament to the brand’s ethos of quality, customer-centric service, and technological leadership in the laser industry.
