Aluminum Laser Cutting Technology Overview

Due to the unique properties of aluminum, there are also many precautions for cutting processing methods. Fiber laser cutting is the most efficient technical cutting method today. Aluminum laser cutting can also have a good effect. This article will help you gain a deep understanding of this through a comprehensive introduction.

The basic principle of aluminum laser cutting technology is based on the interaction between laser and material. When the laser beam is irradiated on the surface of aluminum, the laser energy will be absorbed by the material and converted into heat energy. The accumulation of laser energy causes the surface temperature of the aluminum to rise rapidly. After reaching the melting point or boiling point, the material begins to melt or vaporize. At the same time, the high-density laser beam allows the material to be heated to a high temperature in a very short time, thereby achieving rapid cutting.

In the laser cutter for aluminum, the focusing and positioning of the laser beam are key steps. By adjusting the parameters of the laser and the position of the focusing mirror, the laser beam can be focused into a very small spot. A small spot can achieve precise cutting of aluminum. At the same time, to ensure the quality and efficiency of cutting, the power, frequency, scanning speed, and other parameters of the laser beam need to be precisely controlled.

Also, the thermal effect generated by cutting is also a problem that needs attention. Aluminum has a high thermal conductivity, and the heat generated by cutting will be quickly transferred to the entire workpiece. Excessive heat may cause the workpiece to deform or crack. Thus, it is crucial to take appropriate cooling measures during aluminum laser cutting. Lowering the workpiece temperature can ensure cutting quality and workpiece accuracy.

Aluminum laser cutting technology has significant effects. The following is a detailed analysis:

2.1. Cutting quality

High precision: laser cutter for aluminum can achieve extremely high cutting accuracy. The positioning accuracy of modern aluminum laser cutting machines can reach millimeter level or even finer, which can meet the needs of high-precision cutting.

Smooth incision: The incision of laser cut aluminum plate is smooth and burr-free, and not easy to deform. This high-quality cutting surface reduces later processing and improves production efficiency.

Small heat-affected zone: The energy density of laser cutting is high, the action time is short, and the heat-affected zone produced is very small. It has almost no effect on the performance of aluminum.

2.2. Cutting efficiency

Fast cutting: The cutting speed can reach tens to hundreds of millimeters per second. This speed is much faster than traditional cutting methods, and production efficiency is greatly improved.

No tool replacement: The laser cutting machine does not need to replace the tool during the cutting process. By reducing downtime and tool costs, production efficiency is further improved.

2.3. Environmental protection and energy saving

Low energy consumption: During laser cutting, the energy use rate of the laser beam is high. It is more energy-efficient than traditional cutting methods.

No waste generation: Laser cutting produces almost no waste. Meet environmental protection requirements.

2.4. Applicability and flexibility

Wide material adaptability: It can be applied to the cutting of aluminum materials of different thicknesses and models.

Design flexibility: It can achieve the cutting of complex shapes and patterns. It can meet diverse design needs.

3.1.High reflectivity

High reflectivity refers to materials with high reflectivity to light. Aluminum, as a commonly used high-reflectivity material, has extremely high reflectivity.

Impact: The processing becomes more difficult. High reflectivity reduces the energy use rate of laser equipment when aluminum materials are laser cut. The reflected light generated during cutting may damage the protective lens in front of the laser head. Before cutting, it is necessary to adjust the appropriate cutting parameters to reduce the reflection of aluminum materials during the cutting process and improve cutting efficiency and quality.

3.2.Lightweight

The density of aluminum is only 2.7g/cm³, which is about 1/3 of the density of steel and copper. The use of aluminum materials can significantly reduce the weight of the structure. This feature makes aluminum widely used in aviation, automobiles, and other fields.

Impact: The lightweight property has little direct impact on cutting. Yet, the cutting force and cutting speed need to be controlled during cutting to prevent excessive deformation or damage of aluminum materials.

3.3.Corrosion resistance

Aluminum can show excellent corrosion resistance under most environmental conditions, including air, water and many chemical systems.

Impact: Corrosion resistance has little direct impact on cutting. Yet, the oxide film on the surface of aluminum should be avoided from being damaged during the cutting process. Because the oxide film can improve the corrosion resistance of aluminum.

3.4.Conductivity

Aluminum is twice as conductive as copper (when weight is equal).

Impact: Conductivity has no direct effect on the cutting process itself. Yet, in some specific applications (such as electronic equipment), it is necessary to consider whether the heat generated by cutting will affect the conductivity of aluminum.

3.5.Thermal conductivity

The thermal conductivity of aluminum alloy is about 50-60% of that of copper.

Impact: High thermal conductivity means that heat will spread rapidly during cutting. This may cause the temperature of the cutting area to rise, thus affecting the cutting quality. Thus, when cutting, it is necessary to select appropriate cutting parameters and use coolant to control the temperature.

3.6.Machinability

Aluminum has excellent machinability and is suitable for various deformation and casting processes.

Impact: Good machinability makes aluminum easy to cut. Yet, it is also necessary to avoid excessive cutting that causes aluminum deformation or burrs.

The wide application of cnc aluminum cutting technology is reflected in many industries. Its high precision and high efficiency make aluminum processing more flexible and diversified. The following are some of the main application fields:

4.1. Aerospace field

Aluminum laser cutting technology is used in the processing of plane parts, and spacecraft structures. Its high precision and reliability ensure the quality and safety of aerospace products.

4.2. Automobile industry

The automobile industry is one of the important application fields of aluminum laser cutting technology. Aluminum is involved in the manufacturing process of automobile bodies, engines, and chassis. Aluminum laser cutting technology can achieve cutting of complex shapes and precise dimensions, and improve the performance and appearance quality of automobiles.

4.3. Electronic industry

Fiber Laser cutter aluminum technology can be used for precision cutting of electronic components, radiators, and other parts. Its high precision and fast processing capabilities meet the high requirements of electronic products for size and performance.

4.4. Construction and decoration industry

Aluminum laser cutting technology is also widely used in the construction and decoration industry. For example, aluminum curtain walls and interior decoration materials. In these places, aluminum laser cutting technology can achieve personalized design and rapid production.

4.5. Other industries

Laser aluminum cutter technology is also widely used in mold manufacturing, medical equipment manufacturing, handicraft manufacturing, and other fields. Its wide applicability makes it play an increasingly important role in modern manufacturing.

5.1. Preliminary preparation

Before cutting, the aluminum material needs to be selected and prepared. The prepared materials need to be cleaned and pretreated as necessary. At the same time, the laser-cutting equipment needs to be inspected and debugged to ensure that the Laser cutting machine is in good working condition.

5.2. Cutting process

During the cutting process, the cutting parameters are first set according to the cutting requirements. Then, the aluminum material is accurately cut by focusing and positioning the laser beam. During the cutting process, it is necessary to pay close attention to the cutting quality and the operating status of the Laser cutter. Adjust parameters and handle abnormal situations in time.

5.3. Post-processing

After the cutting is completed, determine whether the surface of the material needs secondary processing. At the same time, the cutting quality needs to be tested and evaluated to ensure that the product meets the quality requirements. For unqualified products, handle them.

Aluminum laser cutting technology is an efficient and precise processing method. It plays an increasingly important role in modern manufacturing. If you are also interested in this technology, welcome to contact us for more information!