Laser Cutters & Engravers

Types of Laser Cutters & Engraver 

A laser cutter and engraver allows you to cut and etch very intricate designs. Wood, metal, leather, and acrylics can all be precisely shaped or cut.

CO2 Laser Cutter & Engraver:

A CO2 laser cutter uses a turbocharged gas mixture (carbon dioxide, helium, nitrogen) directed through a tube, creating an infrared laser beam. Mirrors and lenses direct the laser beam to cut a variety of materials, from paper and wood to leather and acrylic

Diode Laser Cutter:

With a diode laser, electricity passes through semiconductors, and photons are released. Those photons are then directed through lenses and mirrors to cut and etch.  Among laser cutters, they’re cost-effective and great for use on organic materials like wood or leather, as well as some synthetic materials.

Infrared Laser Cutter:

An infrared laser cutter uses invisible light and intense heat for a high level of precision on metal and other materials. It can penetrate deeply to cleanly cut or etch something.  It’s great for metal cutting, including stainless steel, titanium, and more, making it perfect for creating detailed parts.

How to Choose the Right Laser Cutters & Engraver 

Choosing among the various available laser machines and laser types is largely dependent on the kinds of materials you most work with (or plan to work with) and how much precision is required. Example: A hobbyist who needs fiber cutting or to cut light pieces of wood won’t need a machine for laser cutting metal or an item that serves a more heavy-duty or complex purpose.

You’ll also need to factor in the amount of power your chosen machine requires and the space needed to work with the laser cutting machine. And of course, your budget is a big factor.

Typical Applications & Materials  

Laser power is used on many materials. Whether you’re using it for cutting wood or creating complex designs for the automotive industry, here are the best laser engravers and cutters.

Wood: 

A CO2 laser cutter is an excellent tool for cutting through thicker pieces of wood. A diode laser cutter offers both great precision and speed. A diode laser is also budget-friendly, a great option for your typical hobbyist.

Acrylic: 

For working with acrylic, a CO2 laser cutter works very well with this material, especially when it’s clear or translucent. Diodes may be used on acrylics that are either patterned or colored, but in general, diode lasers have issues with acrylics.

Leather: 

For cutting leather, a CO2 laser is ideal. It can cleanly cut through various thicknesses, leaving clean edges. It’s cost-efficient and easy to use. However, diode lasers are gaining popularity because they’re very efficient and cause less potential heat damage.

Glass:

For cutting glass into very precise patterns, an ultraviolet laser can create detailed, clean designs and cuts. For laser engraving, a CO2 laser is excellent for etching glass. For industrial-level precision, a fiber laser is perfect for glass pieces.

Metal: 

A CO 2 laser works well on thinner metals. However, a fiber laser is the preferred choice for working with a wider range of metals, from steel to copper, brass, and more.  For metalwork, it requires less energy than a CO 2 cutter, and maintenance is less.

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