How do I adjust laser parameters for better cutting quality?

Déc 23, 2024

Laser Superstar is a trusted supplier of fiber laser tube cutting machines, offering innovative and efficient solutions for precision cutting in various industries. Adjusting laser parameters for better cutting quality depends on several factors, including the type of material, thickness, and the type of laser cutter machine you’re using. Below are key parameters to optimize for improved cutting results:

1. Laser Power

High Power: Increases cutting capability, especially for thicker or harder materials. Too much power can cause burning or melting.

Low Power: Improves edge quality for thin or delicate materials. Insufficient power can leave uncut areas.

Adjustment Tip: Start with 70-90% of the maximum power and adjust in small increments.

2. Cutting Speed

Faster Speed: Reduces heat input, preventing burning or material distortion but may leave uncut edges.

Slower Speed: Ensures complete cutting but can cause excessive heating, leading to burns or wider kerfs.

Adjustment Tip: Begin with the manufacturer’s recommended settings and fine-tune based on test cuts.

3. Focus Position

Above Surface: Useful for engraving or thinner materials.

On Surface: Standard setting for most materials.

Below Surface: Helps with thicker materials by focusing the beam deeper into the cut.

Adjustment Tip: Use focus gauges or test patterns to find the optimal focus height.

4. Air Assist (Gas Flow)

High Flow: Clears debris and reduces burning but can cool the cut zone excessively.

Low Flow: Suitable for materials prone to charring but may leave residue in the cut.

Adjustment Tip: Ensure the nozzle is properly aligned, and experiment with different gas types (e.g., compressed air, oxygen, nitrogen) for the material.

5. Pulse Frequency (Hz)

High Frequency: Produces smoother edges on some materials but increases heat.

Low Frequency: Reduces heat input, ideal for metals or materials prone to burning.

Adjustment Tip: Test frequency settings to balance edge quality and cutting speed.

6. Beam Mode (Quality)

Ensure the laser beam has a uniform shape and power distribution (TEM00 mode for most applications).

Misaligned optics can degrade beam quality. Regularly check and align mirrors and lenses.

7. Material-Specific Adjustments

Wood: Use lower power and faster speeds to avoid burns.

Acrylic: Ensure proper focus and clean optics for polished edges.

Metal: Use assist gas (e.g., oxygen or nitrogen) to prevent oxidation and improve edge quality.

8. Kerf Compensation

Adjust the cutting path offset to account for the beam’s width, ensuring accurate part dimensions.

9. Diagnostic Tools

Use versatile test instruments, specialized software, and built-in self-diagnostic systems to test core parameters of laser power, optical path alignment, and electrical systems.

Document the settings that yield the best results for each material and thickness.

Would you like detailed instructions on any of these steps?