Laser wood cutting: what it is, what is done and how it happens

07.04.2023

Laser wood cutting produces high quality blanks with minimal waste. The technology of cutting is based on the use of a powerful laser. Depending on the power and the degree of its distance from the surface, you can either cut the wood blade or engraving. The laser easily cuts through wooden workpieces, with a defect-free edge.

Laser wood cutting can be done on blanks as well as on small finished products. The problem of fire during cutting is solved by feeding cooled air. This prevents the cut pieces from turning black or becoming charred.

Laser cutting is used in souvenirs, engraved postcards, models of architectural and construction projects, decorative elements and jewelry with carved patterns. Laser machines are used to produce plywood stencils and blanks, constructors and puzzles, decorations and screens, street signs, signboards, seals and stamps.

The device of a laser machine for wood cutting

Any laser machine includes:

  • power source;
  • Operating element for creating beam flow;
  • elements that amplify the radiation in the form of an opto-amplifier mirror system, or fiber laser;
  • control system;
  • a node that moves the laser over the working surface.

Depending on the technological process, there are three varieties of laser cutting equipment.

  • Solid-state laser machines with a working body in the form of a semiconductor crystal. Such machines are compact, easy to use and affordable. Low-power, low cost.
  • Fiber optic wood cutting machines. Flexible fiber optics are used to transmit radiation. They do not generate a lot of heat and do not require a cooling system, have a higher performance. They are the most expensive machines.
  • Gas wood cutting machines. They use the chemical properties of gases: nitrogen, carbon dioxide, helium. These are powerful and relatively inexpensive machines.

Advantages of laser wood cutting

The advantages of laser equipment are considered:

  • Accuracy. The laser cutter copes with any complex contours, it can process the smallest details.
    •
  • The possibility of creating original products from environmentally friendly materials.
  • High productivity. High cutting speed makes it possible to perform large quantities in a short time.
  • Economical. Wood is used sparingly when cutting, waste is minimal. And energy consumption is also low.
  • Multifunctionality. Except for cutting, engraving and relief contours are possible.

How to work with a wood cutting machine

Before starting work and preparing the equipment, it is necessary to carefully study the instruction manual. Pay attention to all the nuances and the main stages of work.

The main stages of working with a woodworking machine:

  1. Preparation of the model of the product. It can be two-dimensional and three-dimensional. It is produced in a special program on the computer.
  2. Based on the model, the computer system calculates the necessary working parameters. Only the dimensions of the product and material parameters should be entered.
  3. The workpiece of the required size is fixed. The machine can be started.
  4. Periodic operator's control is required. The protection system in case of the slightest malfunction will shut down the equipment and prevent the occurrence of accidents.
  5. Do not forget about the cooling system. If necessary, water or other necessary materials should be added.