What Is Laser Cutting?
Laser cutting, also known as laser beam cutting, is a highly precise, non contact process for industrial material processing. A focused laser beam is used to cut material with exceptional accuracy.
Because the process is completely non contact, there is no physical contact between the cutting tool and the material. This prevents material distortion and minimizes the risk of damage, even when processing delicate materials.
Since no mechanical tools are involved, there is virtually no tool wear. This helps reduce operating costs by eliminating tooling expenses and minimizing production downtime.
Which Materials Can Be Processed with Laser Cutting?
Metals & metal foils
Plastics & plastic films
Paper & cardboard
Filter materials
Wood veneers & acoustic panels
Other materials
Benefits of Laser Cutting
Flexibility
Exceptional precision and cut quality
High processing speed
Non contact processing with minimal wear
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The non-contact processing significantly reduces operating costs compared to mechanical tooling.
Suitable for a wide range of materials & industries
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Ideal for metals, metal foils, plastics, films, paper, cardboard, and more materials across numerous industrial applications.
Laser Cutting Solutions from MLT
MLT has decades of experience in industrial laser cutting and develops customized solutions for a wide variety of industries and materials. Our portfolio ranges from proven standard systems to fully customized laser solutions. Every system is designed around your application and manufacturing process to maximize efficiency, precision, and productivity.
Our experts will help you select the ideal laser source and machine configuration for your specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between laser perforation, laser scoring, and laser cutting?
Laser perforation and laser scoring are specialized laser processes that differ from laser cutting in both their purpose and the final result.
Laser perforation creates small, highly precise holes in a material. It is commonly used for applications that require ventilation, filtration, controlled permeability, or decorative patterns. Typical industries include packaging, cigarette paper manufacturing, and automotive production.
Laser scoring creates a precisely controlled groove or weakened line without cutting completely through the material. It is commonly used for easy open packaging, folding lines in cartons, and functional product markings.
Laser Cutting
Laser cutting completely separates the material using a focused laser beam. When processing thin materials, the laser vaporizes the material almost instantly while introducing very little heat into the surrounding area. This enables extremely precise cuts and intricate geometries across a broad range of materials.
Which materials cannot be laser cut?
With the right laser source, most materials can be processed efficiently. However, some materials are not suitable for laser cutting.
For example, PVC releases corrosive and hazardous fumes during laser processing, making it unsuitable for standard laser cutting systems. Composite materials made from very different layers, such as paper laminated with aluminum, may also develop discoloration because each material reacts differently to the laser.
Our engineers will be happy to evaluate whether your material is suitable for laser processing.
Can wood be laser cut?
Yes. Wood is an excellent material for laser cutting and can be processed in many forms, including solid wood, plywood, MDF, real wood laminates, and parquet flooring.
Depending on the material and the laser source, thicknesses of several millimeters can be processed while maintaining outstanding edge quality.
Can plastics be laser cut?
Yes. Many plastics are ideally suited for laser cutting, including plastic films, laminates, and solid plastic materials.
Some plastics, such as PVC and fluorinated polymers, release hazardous gases during laser processing. In these cases, effective extraction and filtration systems are essential to ensure safe operation.
Which laser sources are used for laser cutting?
The ideal laser source depends on the material, application, desired cut quality, and required production speed.
- CO₂-Lasers: Ideal for paper, cardboard, plastics, wood, leather, and selected metals.
- Fiber Lasers: The preferred choice for metals, reflective materials, and applications requiring high efficiency.
- Ultrashort Pulse Lasers: Designed for heat sensitive materials and ultra precise micromachining applications.
- UV-Lasers: Ideal for producing extremely fine structures in microelectronics, medical technology, and semiconductor manufacturing.
Selecting the right laser source is essential for achieving optimum cut quality, productivity, and process reliability. MLT works closely with customers to identify the best laser technology for every application.