When exploring the capabilities of a 4kW laser cutting machine, one of the most common questions is, “How thick can a 4kW laser cut?” Understanding the thickness limits of a 4kW laser is crucial for determining its suitability for various cutting applications. In this article, we’ll delve into the factors that influence the cutting thickness of a 4kW laser and provide insights into the types of materials and thicknesses it can effectively handle. Whether you’re looking to cut metal sheets or other materials, this information will help you make informed decisions about your laser cutting needs.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Although 4kw fiber laser cutting machine have been on the market for many years and have matured, many users do not understand the advantages of laser cutters. 4kw fiber laser cutting machine as an efficient processing equipment, can completely replace the traditional cutting equipment. Many users say the machine is better suited for modern product processing. Normally, A 4kW laser cutting machine can generally cut mild steel up to 20 mm thick, stainless steel up to 12 mm, and aluminum up to 10 mm, though exact limits may vary depending on the specific machine and material. Therefore, what are the outstanding advantages of this 4kw fiber laser cutting machine over traditional types of tools?
What Are Advantages of 4KW Fiber Laser
As Krrass 3015 fiber laser plate cutting machine for instance. This 4kw fiber laser cutting machine has the features of professional design, a rigid and durable frame, easy operation, high cutting speed, and precision. And it can cut lines and holes with different diameters from different directions on the metal plates to meet centrifugal and non-centrifugal vertical intersection conditions.
1. Cutting Processing Speed
According to the actual test results of laser field, the cutting speed of 4kw fiber laser cutting machine is more than 10 times that of traditional cutting equipment. For example, cutting 1mm stainless steel plate,4kw laser cutting machine maximum speed can reach more than 30 meters per minute, which is not possible with conventional cutting machines.
2. Quality and Precision of the Cut
Traditional flame cutting and CNC punches are contact-type processing methods, for the material damage is very large, cutting quality is very low, must go through secondary processing to make the surface flat, and cutting accuracy deviation is very large. And the 4kw laser cutting machine is a non-contact mechanic way, for the material damage is almost zero, because the 4kw laser cutting machine uses advanced accessories to make the equipment more stable in operation, cutting accuracy more accurate, error even reached 0.01mm accuracy, cutting surface flat and smooth. For some demanding industries not only save costs but also processing time.
3. More Simpler and More Convenient Operation
Flame cutting and CNC punches are required to intervene in the operation of the machine, especially CNC punches, it is necessary to design a mold before cutting. 4 kw laser cutting machine only need to design a good cutting pattern in the computer, any complex pattern can be imported into the laser cutting machine’s work station, the equipment will be automatically processed, the whole automation without human intervention.
4. More Efficient
Now is a efficiency-demanding society, everything needs to be fast and good. In the cutting of materials, more efficiency is required. Traditional cutting machine because of heavy operation, slow work efficiency has been gradually eliminated by the market, 4kw fiber laser cutting machine is now the darling of the market. Because this machine not only in the line cutting more uniform precision, but also improve productivity, bring more production value.
How Thick Can A 4kw Laser Cut For Different Metals
When it comes to laser cutting thick steel, the limits are primarily manifested in factors such as the materials that can be cut, the power of the lasers, and, as a result, the maximum thickness of metal that the lasers can handle.
As a result, the maximum laser cutting thickness is determined by the specific laser and material used, among other factors.
We can combine a 6,000 watt laser with a metal such as stainless steel. In this case, the maximum thickness of the laser cutting would be approximately 2.75 inches.
However, the thickness is dependent on those specific variables. The same laser could probably only penetrate 1 5/8 inch of carbon steel, while a 4,000-watt laser could only penetrate 1 inch of stainless steel.
The maximum cutting thickness of different materials with a 4000W fiber laser cutting machine is as follows: the maximum thickness of carbon steel is 30 mm; the maximum thickness of stainless steel is 12 mm; the maximum thickness of aluminum is 10 mm; the maximum thickness of copper is 6 mm. More information for all materials and various thicknesses will be provided below.
| Fiber Laser Power (W) | Material | Maximum Cutting Thickness (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 4000 | Carbon Steel | 30 |
| 4000 | Stainless Steel | 12 |
| 4000 | Aluminum | 10 |
| 4000 | Copper | 6 |
| 4000 | Brass | 6 |
| 4000 | Plastic | 7 |
| 4000 | Composites | 7 |
| 4000 | Ceramics | 7 |
| 4000 | Wood | 7 |
How Thick Can a 12000W Fiber Laser Cut?
The maximum cutting thickness of different materials using a 12000W fiber laser cutting machine: the maximum thickness of carbon steel is 40mm; the maximum thickness of stainless steel is 30mm; the maximum thickness of aluminum plate is 30mm; the maximum thickness of copper plate is 15mm.
Here is the table showing the maximum cutting thickness for various materials using a 12000W fiber laser:
| Fiber Laser Power (W) | Material | Maximum Cutting Thickness (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 12000 | Aluminum | 30 |
| 12000 | Copper | 15 |
| 12000 | Stainless Steel | 30 |
| 12000 | Carbon Steel | 40 |
| 12000 | Brass | 15 |
| 12000 | Plastic | 40 |
| 12000 | Composites | 30 |
| 12000 | Ceramics | 20 |
| 12000 | Wood | 50 |
For complete 4000W fiber laser cutting parameters, pls refer to this passage.
What Factors Affect the Laser Cutting Quality
Laser Power
Laser power is a crucial factor in determining what materials and thicknesses your laser cutting machine can handle. Generally, higher power allows for cutting a wider range of materials and greater thicknesses. For example, a 1kW fiber laser can cut stainless steel up to 5mm thick, while a 3kW laser can handle up to 12mm.
Reflective metals like aluminum require more power compared to less reflective metals like stainless steel. If you’re unable to cut through certain materials, it may be due to insufficient power. However, it’s important to check other factors such as cutting speed, focal point, and gas pressure as well.
Higher laser power also enables faster cutting and simplifies parameter adjustments. With more power, you don’t need to be as precise with settings like power, cutting speed, and gas pressure, as the increased power allows for more flexibility in achieving the desired cut.
Type of Gas and Pressure
In laser cutting, the type and quality of gas used are crucial for achieving optimal results. Gas assist plays several essential roles: it helps expel molten material from the cutting area and protects the laser lenses from debris and molten metal splashes. Common gases used include oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and compressed air, which is a mix of nitrogen and oxygen from the environment. The gas should be highly pure, typically around 95.5%, to avoid contamination that can negatively affect the cut quality.
Gas pressure is also a significant factor. It is responsible for blowing away molten metal and ensuring a clean cut. Insufficient gas pressure can lead to problems such as dross or residue on the cut piece. If you encounter issues with cut quality or excessive residue, checking and adjusting the gas pressure should be a priority.
Nozzle Type, Size, and Centering
The type and size of the nozzle in a laser cutting system play crucial roles in the cutting process. Generally, there are two main types of nozzles: single-layer and double-layer. Single-layer nozzles, which are used with nitrogen, are typically employed for cutting materials like stainless steel, aluminum alloys, and brass. Double-layer nozzles, used with oxygen, are preferred for cutting carbon steel. It’s important to consult with your laser cutting machine manufacturer to select the appropriate nozzle type for your specific cutting requirements.
Additionally, nozzle size, which refers to the diameter of the nozzle, affects the cutting quality. Larger nozzles are usually required for thicker metals to ensure effective cutting. Proper centering of the nozzle is also essential; an off-center nozzle can lead to uneven cuts and poor performance in certain directions. Ensuring the nozzle is correctly aligned is one of the first steps to achieving precise and high-quality cuts. Future guides will provide detailed instructions on how to center the nozzle correctly.
Focal Lens
The focal lens is a critical component in a laser cutting machine, as it focuses the laser beam onto the material to achieve precise cutting. However, if the focal lens becomes dirty or contaminated, it can significantly impact the quality of your laser cuts. A dirty lens can cause a range of issues, including reduced cutting accuracy, inconsistent cut edges, and increased heat dispersion, all of which can compromise the final product.
In severe cases, if the lens is not cleaned regularly, the accumulated dirt and debris can lead to overheating and damage internal parts of the laser machine. This can result in costly repairs and downtime, ultimately affecting productivity.
To maintain optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your laser machine, it’s essential to regularly clean the focal lens. Use appropriate cleaning tools and solutions designed for laser equipment to avoid scratching or damaging the lens. Ensuring that your focal lens is clean not only improves cut quality but also helps maintain the overall efficiency and longevity of your laser cutting system.
Focal Point, Position, and Length
When a laser machine cuts metal plates, the laser forms kind of a hourglass shape. See the image below.
In laser cutting, the middle section of the hourglass-shaped laser cut is known as the depth of focus. This region is where the cutting action is most intense and where precision is crucial. The exact center of this depth of focus is referred to as the focal point or spot. It’s important to note that the depth of focus is more of a vertical line or bar rather than a single point.
Properly positioning the focal point is essential for achieving high-quality cuts without burrs or other defects. If the focal point is not correctly aligned, the quality of the cuts can suffer significantly.
The ideal position of the focal point depends on the material and its thickness. In future posts, I’ll provide detailed guidelines on how to adjust the focal point for different materials and thicknesses. Stay tuned for more information on optimizing your laser cutting results.
Cutting Speed:
Finding the right cutting speed is crucial for achieving optimal laser cutting quality. If the speed is too slow, you might end up with excess melted metal and burn marks, similar to overcooking food. Conversely, if the speed is too fast, the laser may struggle to cut through the material. Balancing cutting speed with other parameters like power and gas pressure ensures efficient and effective cutting. Think of the laser like a stream of water: you need adequate pressure (power and gas) and time (speed) to cut through materials effectively.
Continuous Wave vs. Pulsed Processing
Laser machines operate using two primary modes: continuous wave and pulsed processing.
Continuous Wave Mode: In this mode, the laser emits a steady, uninterrupted beam. This constant flow of laser energy is effective for cutting straight lines and sharp corners, much like a continuous stream of water cutting through a material.
Pulsed Wave Mode: Here, the laser emits bursts of energy in rapid succession, akin to a shotgun firing multiple rounds at once. This mode is particularly suited for cutting small holes and intricate patterns, as it delivers intense bursts of energy that can handle detailed work more efficiently.
Choosing the appropriate mode based on your cutting needs ensures optimal performance and quality in your laser cutting tasks.
Material Considerations for Laser Cutting
When setting up your laser cutting parameters, it’s crucial to consider the type and properties of the material being cut. Each material interacts differently with the laser and heat, influencing the cutting process.
Material Properties:
- Heat Absorption: Some metals absorb heat more readily, facilitating easier cutting, while others, particularly reflective metals, do not absorb light as efficiently.
- Carbon and Alloy Content: Metals with lower levels of silicon, phosphorus, and carbon are generally easier to cut. Conversely, metals with high carbon content (e.g., carbon steel) or high alloy content can be more challenging to cut.
Reflective Metals:
- Reflectivity: Highly reflective metals like aluminum, brass, and copper require significantly more power to cut effectively. Their reflective nature can bounce light back into the laser head, potentially damaging the machine. Typically, cutting reflective metals demands about 30% more power than less reflective materials.
Coatings and Finishes:
- Surface Treatments: Spray finishes, paints, and coatings can affect the laser cutting process. These additional layers can impact the quality of the cut and may require adjustments to cutting parameters to achieve optimal results.
Impact of Design Complexity on Laser Cutting
The complexity of your cutting design significantly affects the quality of the laser cut. Designs with mostly straight lines and sharp corners are straightforward to cut. These designs generally require standard cutting parameters and equipment.
Designs featuring numerous curves and small holes are more intricate and demand specialized settings and potentially different equipment, such as specific nozzle types. For complex shapes, you may need to adjust parameters like cutting speed and acceleration to ensure precision. For example, cutting curves often requires a reduction in speed and acceleration to maintain accuracy and prevent errors.
Adjusting your parameters based on design complexity ensures the best results and avoids issues during the cutting process.
How to Select the Laser Power for Your Application
Material Type and Thickness:
Higher power is needed for cutting thicker and harder materials. For example, a 1kW laser is typically suitable for thin metals, while a 4kW laser is better for thicker and more challenging materials.
Cutting Speed and Efficiency:
More power allows for faster cutting speeds and increased efficiency, especially for high-volume production.
Precision and Quality:
Ensure the laser power matches the precision required for your application. Higher power can improve cutting quality, but it must be balanced with the material’s properties.
Cost and Budget:
Higher-powered lasers are more expensive. Assess your budget and determine if the additional power will provide a return on investment based on your production needs.
Future Needs:
Consider potential future applications and material changes that might require more power.
By aligning these factors with your specific cutting requirements, you can choose the optimal laser power for your application.
Common Misconceptions about Laser Cutter Power
There are a lot of misconceptions regarding laser cutter power, and we believe that they need to be addressed in this article.
More Power Is Always Better
That is not always the case. The choice of power cutter must be based on the material surface that needs to be cut. For instance, we don’t have to use high-powered fiber lasers for small-scale applications like cutting paper or wood. That is like cutting an apple with a saw instead of a knife.
Higher Power Means Faster Cutting Speeds
Technically, there isn’t any relationship between power and faster cutting speeds. However, we have to adjust based on our desired needs. At times, yes, the increased power necessarily requires high cutting speed. But that isn’t always the case.
High-Power Lasers Can Cut Any Material thickness
Though we need high-powered laser beams to cut through thicker metals, it doesn’t necessarily mean these lasers can cut materials of any thickness. There’s a specified thickness range for every material and every laser-cutting machine. You can check the specific machine’s manual to figure that out.
FAQ
How fast is the cutting speed of a 4KW laser cutting machine?
The cutting speed of a 4KW laser cutting machine depends on the material and its thickness. For example, it can cut carbon steel at speeds of up to 20 meters per minute, stainless steel at about 15 meters per minute, aluminum at around 12 meters per minute, and copper at approximately 8 meters per minute.
Can a 4KW laser cutting machine cut non-metal
Yes, a 4KW laser cutting machine can cut non-metal materials. It is capable of cutting materials such as plastics, wood, and composites. The specific cutting capabilities will depend on the type of non-metal material and its thickness.
What materials can’t be cut by 4KW fiber laser?
A 4KW laser cutting machine typically cannot cut highly reflective metals like copper and brass, as well as materials like ceramics that are too hard or brittle. Additionally, it may struggle with very thick materials that exceed its cutting capacity.
What the price of 4kw fiber laser?
The price of a 4KW fiber laser cutting machine generally ranges from $50,000 to $100,000, depending on the manufacturer, features, and additional options.
Emerging Trends in Laser Cutter Technology
Laser cutting technology has evolved significantly over the past few decades, with recent advancements enhancing its capabilities and efficiency. Here are some key emerging trends in laser cutter technology:
Integration with Automation Systems
Automation and robotics are increasingly being integrated into laser cutting systems, leading to enhanced precision and efficiency. These systems can now perform complex cutting tasks with minimal manual intervention, and companies like Baison Laser are at the forefront of developing automated laser-cutting solutions.
Advanced Control and Monitoring Features
Modern laser cutters are incorporating advanced control and monitoring features. Real-time monitoring, cloud connectivity, and intelligent material detection are being integrated to allow operators to oversee and manage cutting processes remotely and with greater precision.
Integration with CAD Software
The integration of laser cutters with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is becoming more common. This trend allows designers to create detailed designs and send them directly to the laser cutter, streamlining the workflow and enhancing cutting accuracy.
These advancements reflect the ongoing innovation in the laser cutting industry, driving improvements in efficiency, precision, and automation.
In Summary
I think you have known the strong 4KW machine and undertand the capability of 4kw lasers include how thick can a 4kw laser cut. As you explore the best options for your needs, consider the KRRASS brand for its reputation in delivering cutting-edge laser cutting solutions. KRRASS’s machines are known for their reliability, advanced features, and integration capabilities, ensuring you stay at the forefront of laser cutting technology.
