3 Ways to Improve Cut Edge Quality in Metal Laser Cutting

Metal laser cutting is one of the most widely used technologies in the industry. The quality of the cut edges directly impacts the overall quality of the product. In this article, we will explore three effective ways to improve cut edge quality in metal laser cutting.

1. Optimize Laser Power and Speed Settings

Laser power and cutting speed are the most important parameters that directly affect the cut edge quality. Incorrect laser power or speed settings can cause issues like burning or melting of the material, leading to rough edges.

Proper Laser Power:

• High Power Cutting: Thicker metal sheets require higher laser power. High power helps the material cut faster and results in smoother edges.
• Low Power Cutting: For thinner metal sheets, using lower laser power can prevent burning and roughness at the edges.

Suitable Cutting Speed:

• Low Speed Cutting: Cutting at a low speed allows the material to be cut more evenly, resulting in clearer edges.
• High Speed Cutting: Cutting at higher speeds can increase energy density, which helps achieve the desired cut quality. However, excessively high speeds can lead to rough edges.

Finding the right combination of laser power and speed is one of the key ways to improve cut edge quality.

2. Ensure Proper Gas Flow

The gases used during laser cutting play a crucial role in improving cut edge quality. Gases help to remove the molten metal during cutting and ensure a clean cut. Improper gas selection or insufficient gas flow can lead to burning, distortion, and roughness at the edges.

Oxygen Gas:

Oxygen is commonly used for cutting carbon steels. The use of oxygen promotes oxidation of the metal, resulting in smoother cut edges.

Nitrogen Gas:

Nitrogen is often used for cutting stainless steel and other materials where oxidation should be avoided. Nitrogen provides cleaner, more precise cut edges.

Air Gas:

Air can be used for general-purpose cutting but should be avoided in aesthetic applications as it can cause oxidation. However, sufficient gas flow is critical for improving cut quality.

3. Properly Adjust the Laser Focal Length

The focal length of the laser light is another crucial factor that directly affects cut edge quality. Correct laser focus ensures sharper, cleaner cut edges.

Correct Focal Length:

• Focus Point and Vertical Plane: Correctly focusing the laser light helps achieve smoother edges. A properly focused laser leaves less molten metal and makes finer cuts.
• Incorrect Focus Settings: Incorrect focal settings can lead to the formation of "bands" or "roughness" at the edges. Therefore, the laser's focal point must be adjusted based on material thickness and type.

Focal Length and Material Thickness Relationship:

Adjusting the focal length according to material thickness ensures more precise cutting and cleaner edges. Shorter focal lengths are preferred for thinner materials, while longer focal lengths are better for thicker materials.

Conclusion

Improving cut edge quality in metal laser cutting is achievable by correctly setting parameters and adjustments. Optimizing laser power and speed, ensuring proper gas flow, and adjusting the laser focal length are all interrelated steps. By considering these three critical factors, it is possible to achieve high-quality cut edges and improve production efficiency.