Fiber laser cutting machines and carbon dioxide laser cutting machines are both the most popular types of laser cutting machines on the market today. They all have their advantages and disadvantages and are suitable for different application scenarios.
In this article, we will conduct a comprehensive comparison of fiber laser cutting vs co2 laser cutting to help you choose the cutting machine that is best for you.
Fiber laser cutting machine definition
Fiber laser cutting machine is a laser cutting machine that uses fiber laser as the light source. Fiber laser is a new type of laser with the advantages of small size, high efficiency and good beam quality. The fiber laser cutting machine focuses the fiber laser beam into a high-power density spot and irradiates it onto the surface of the workpiece, causing the workpiece to instantly melt or vaporize, thereby achieving cutting.
How does a fiber laser cutting machine work
What is co2 laser cutting machine
A CO2 laser cutting machine is a type of laser cutter that uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser as its light source.
How does a co2 laser cutting machine work
Application co2 laser cutter vs fiber
| Application | Fiber Laser Cutter | CO2 Laser Cutter |
|---|---|---|
| Precision sheet metal processing | √ | |
| Electronic component manufacturing | √ | |
| Automobile manufacturing | √ | |
| Aerospace | √ | |
| Medical devices | √ | |
| Mold manufacturing | √ | |
| Carbon steel cutting | √ | |
| Stainless steel cutting | √ | |
| Aluminum sheet cutting | √ | |
| Sheet metal processing | √ | |
| Advertising signs | √ | |
| Leather cutting | √ | |
| Textile and clothing | √ |
Advantage of fiber laser cutter vs co2
| Feature | Fiber Laser Cutter | CO2 Laser Cutter |
|---|---|---|
| Laser type | Fiber laser | CO2 laser |
| Laser wavelength | 1.064μm | 10.6μm |
| Photoelectric conversion rate | 25%-30% | 8%-10% |
| Cutting speed | Fast | Medium |
| Cutting precision | High | High |
| Cutting thickness | Thin sheets (<6mm) | Thick plates (>6mm) |
| Energy consumption | Low | High |
| Maintenance cost | Low | High |
| Applicable materials | Metals | Metals, non-metals |
Disadvantages of co2 laser vs fiber laser cutting
| Feature | Fiber Laser Cutter | CO2 Laser Cutter |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment cost | High | Low |
| Applicable materials | Not suitable for cutting highly reflective materials | Suitable |
| Cutting speed | Slow for thin sheet cutting | Fast for thin sheet cutting |
| Energy consumption | Low | High |
| Operating cost | Low | High |
| Maintenance cost | Low | High |
| Service life | Long | Short |
How to choose fiber laser cutter vs CO2
Choosing fiber laser cutter vs co2 depends on your specific needs.
The choice between a CO2 and fiber laser cutter depends on your specific needs and priorities. Consider factors like:
Material: Choose based on the materials you plan to cut most frequently.
Budget: CO2 lasers are generally more affordable upfront, but consider energy costs over time.
Cutting speed and precision: If high speed is crucial, CO2 might be suitable for thicker materials, but fiber lasers excel in intricate detail with high precision.
Maintenance requirements: Factor in the cost and frequency of required maintenance.
- If you need to cut thin plates and have high cutting speed and precision requirements, then a fiber laser cutting machine is a better choice.
- If you need to cut thick plates and have higher requirements on cutting cost and material compatibility, then a CO2 laser cutting machine is a better choice.