Fiber Laser Cutting Brass

Laser cutting brass involves using a high-powered laser to melt, burn, or vaporize the material along a specified path, achieving precise cuts with minimal material loss. Here are the basics:

1. Material Preparation:

- Ensure the brass sheet or material is clean and free of contaminants that could affect the cutting quality.

- Thickness of the brass sheet typically ranges from very thin (0.1 mm) to thicker sheets (up to several millimeters), depending on the application.

2. Laser Cutting Parameters:

- Power: High laser power is usually required for cutting brass, often in the range of 1500 to 3000 watts, depending on the thickness of the material.

- Speed: The cutting speed is crucial and varies with the thickness of the brass. It's typically slower for thicker materials to ensure clean cuts.

- Gas: Oxygen or nitrogen is used as an assist gas. Oxygen reacts with brass to aid in cutting, while nitrogen is used to prevent oxidation on the cut edges, especially for decorative or clean-cut applications.

- Focus: Proper focus of the laser beam is critical for achieving clean cuts. The focus point should be precisely set according to the thickness of the brass sheet.

3. Process:

- The laser beam is directed onto the surface of the brass sheet, guided by computer numerical control (CNC) based on the design specifications.

- The intense heat of the laser melts or vaporizes the brass along the cutting line, creating a kerf (width of the cut) that is typically very narrow.

- As the laser cuts through, the assist gas blows away molten material and helps cool the cut, preventing re-fusion and ensuring a clean edge.

4. Edge Quality and Considerations:

- Laser cutting produces high-quality edges with minimal burrs, especially when using nitrogen as the assist gas to prevent oxidation.

- The cut edges of brass tend to have a smooth finish, but post-processing may be required for specific applications, such as deburring or polishing.

5. Design Considerations:

- Designs for laser cutting should consider the capabilities of the laser system and the material thickness. Intricate designs are possible, but thick materials may require slower cutting speeds to maintain quality.

6. Safety:

- Laser cutting involves high-intensity light and heat, so proper safety precautions are essential, including wearing protective eyewear and ensuring adequate ventilation.

By understanding these basics, you can effectively utilize laser cutting for brass to achieve precise, intricate cuts suitable for various applications, including jewelry making, industrial components, and artistic creations.

Contact us today for your fiber laser cutting needs.