As reported by ScienceDirect in their article “Laser Cutting,” the process of laser cutting metal involves using focused photon energy to melt or vaporize material, producing a precise cut. The quality of the cut edges depends on factors such as laser type, beam quality, and assist gas selection. Thin metals (1 mm or less) can achieve square-side cuts, but as thickness increases, some tapering occurs. Additionally, using nitrogen gas instead of oxygen can reduce surface roughness in stainless steel applications.
For industries requiring precision metal finishing, optimizing laser cutting parameters is crucial. Striations from the laser melting process are more pronounced in thicker metals, affecting surface smoothness. Continuous wave CO₂ laser cutting typically results in surface roughness of 8–15 µm in cold-rolled steel and 30–50 µm in stainless steel. However, fiber laser technology can enable striation-free cutting for thin sheets, improving overall quality and efficiency. Additionally, controlling heat-affected zones (HAZ) ensures minimal thermal distortion, particularly in mild steel applications.
By leveraging auxiliary optical systems and beam polarization, manufacturers can enhance cutting accuracy for straight-sided profiles. With the right laser technology and gas assistance, businesses can achieve cleaner cuts, reduced post-processing, and greater production efficiency.
Click here to learn more about Architectural & Industrial Metal Finishing Company’s capabilities or services.
Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of sciencedirect.com.
