Explaining CNC Cutting and Laser Cutting
The manufacturing industry makes heavy use of both laser cutting and CNC cutting. The result is to get a precise and reliably cut material for components. While both methods work differently, they more or less achieve the same goal. But it is still important to consider the differences so that you can pick the right method for the task.
In the following guide, we will take a closer look at both CNC cutting and laser cutting, to discover what is different about them.
CNC cutting
Both CNC routers and CNC lasers are applicable in regard to CNC machine control, and precision part construction with a very low amount of waste and high productivity. The main use of such technology is for the fabrication of parts in various designs. CNC cutting is essentially a connection based procedure, which manufactures the parts with impeccable velocity and positioning. The main process is all about friction, achieved through the CNC router. The method allows for cutting straight, diagonal and curved cuts, which would otherwise be difficult to achieve. The designs that CNC cutting is employed for are created with AutoCAD or other such software. The router allows for easy depth control, which removes the issue of discolouration.
Of course, all of the work and the outcome of the process depends on the quality of the CNC cutting tools. The effective tool should possess high thermal conductivity and be resistant to wear. It should be chemically inert and very stable on the job. Here are a few examples of CNC tools:
- Ceramics — used for a high-quality finish and cut off materials like cast iron or superalloys.
- Carbon steel — used for operations of lower speed. Some of its contents are manganese, silicon and carbon, and it can be used in cutting, turning, tool forming and drilling.
- Cemented carbide — usually works with metals like titanium, tungsten, and tantalum. It works very high-speed operations, where temperatures can reach and exceed 1000 degrees Celsius.
Laser cutting
This method uses a laser to melt and vaporise the material. It relies on optics, a system to guide and regulate, to focus the workpiece and do the job. It can easily make uniform cuts on complex parts, providing clean vertical lines. It can also be used for engraving, drilling and marking.
Laser cutting is very precise and accurate. The systems and technologies used in the process allow for cutting materials with very high accuracy and precision. That is why it is highly used in industries that require such characteristics, like medical and aerospace. Laser cutting technology doesn’t have moving parts and thus often amounts to lower power consumption.
Another important thing about laser cutting is that it allows for higher sheet utilisation with minimal waste. It uses a higher percentage of the material to produce usable components and parts. In doing so, it reduces the amount of waste. Because laser cutting tools don’t have moving parts, they are easier to maintain and also have lower operational costs. They are very cost-effective in regards to a large batch for production or limited runs. It also bears mention that laser cutting removes the need for several additional steps, like flame polishing, fixing, vacuum preparation, etc.
Laser cutting is seeing constant improvements. It is becoming better and more versatile. As a result, various industries have made very good use of the products and services it provides. It is still limited in the domestic sector, with mostly bog companies relying on it.
