Laser cutting or plasma cutting?

A question we often hear is: "Should I use laser or plasma cutting for my metal fabrication? As a specialized CNC machine tool manufacturer, we have the knowledge and know-how to provide you with expert advice based on your budget, needs and final project. Today, we'd like to take a moment to talk about the differences between laser and plasma cutting machines and the projects on which customers can use these technologies.

1、Definition of laser cutter and plasma cutting

2、Comparison of laser cutting machine and plasma cutting machine

3、The advantages of laser cutting machine and plasma cutting machine

4.Tips for choosing the best plasma cutting machine

1.Definition of laser cutting machine and plasma cutting

Laser Cutting

Most of us can visualize a laser, but are not sure what it really is. A laser cutter is essentially an optical beam of concentrated light, a high-power beam that rapidly heats, melts and partially vaporizes the metal or other material it touches.

Plasma Cutting

Plasma cutting was actually developed before laser cutting and was first used in the 1950s. Prior to this, metals were cut with a flame, however, some metals could not be cut with a flame, such as stainless steel, aluminum or copper, so plasma cutting was created. Plasma cutting uses a highly concentrated channel of electrically conductive gas as a vessel to transfer energy from a power source to the material being cut via a plasma torch. Like the laser cutter, the plasma cutter ultimately cuts metal by melting it.

2. Comparison of Laser Cutting Machines and Plasma Cutting Machines

Laser cutters are typically more expensive to operate, but offer a level of finesse that plasma cutters do not. As a result, lasers are great for engraving details or cutting out small shapes of metal, while plasma is better suited for simpler cuts. Plasma cutters can cut thicker sheet metal. In general, plasma cutters can cut metal up to 1.5 inches thick. Lasers, on the other hand, can cut aluminum up to a half-inch thick, stainless steel up to three-quarters of an inch thick, and steel up to an inch thick. Plasma can only cut conductive materials, while lasers can be used to cut wood, plastic, glass and other materials. This is because plasma uses a conductive gas rather than an optical beam to cut. Lasers cannot cut highly reflective materials such as copper, so a plasma cutter may be the best choice for cutting such materials. However, plasma can cut any conductive metal, regardless of its surface. Laser cutting has much tighter tolerances of 0.002 inches, making it ideal for precision cuts or parts with intricate notches.

Both laser and plasma cutting machines from UTECH use CNC (Computer Numerical Control) to control the machine. This means your project can be completed quickly and accurately.

3. Benefits of Laser and Plasma Cutting Machines

Advantages of Laser Cutting Machines

As we said, laser cutting machines are one of the most viable methods for fabricators. So what is it about the laser cutting process that makes it so valued by laser cutting stores? Here are four reasons why laser cutters are the most reliable method for metal fabrication.

Precise Edges: When cutting with traditional methods, such as blades, burrs or rough surfaces often appear, requiring polishing and smoothing. This is not a problem with laser cutters.

Precise details: The laser beam does not wear out. This improves accuracy. Additionally, the larger size of a typical laser and the fact that it is guided by a high-powered computer allows for the creation of intricate designs that would otherwise be impossible to produce.

Low maintenance: Traditional cutting methods require routine maintenance and sharpening. CNC laser cutters require no such maintenance and can work for long periods of time without repair.

Maximum Efficiency: The laser does not need to be adjusted or re-equipped for either prototyping or mass production. This allows for optimal manufacturing efficiency.

Versatility: Laser cutting machines are capable of cutting a wide range of materials and thicknesses.

Quick setup: Compared to other metal cutting technologies, laser cutting machines have a relatively short setup time. It is also easier to make adjustments when customized processing is required.

Advantages of Plasma Cutting Machines

Safer than using a saw

Cuts thick metals (up to approximately 1.5 inches thick) and a variety of surface types

Provides extremely accurate, fast and repeatable cuts (when used with CNC machines)

4.Tips for choosing the best plasma cutting  machine

Determine the application. What materials will you be cutting? What products do you intend to produce with the plasma cutter? Plasma cutters are amazingly versatile tools, but you need to make sure that the plasma cutter you buy is powerful enough to do the job you want to do. These questions will narrow down the plasma cutter that is right for you.

Consider the cutting speed. The cutting speed will tell you how fast the plasma cutter will cut different thicknesses of metal. Additionally, a plasma cutter with a higher current will cut through metal faster than a cutter with a lower current, even though both will get the job done.

Consider how the plasma cutter is started. Most plasma cutters have a pilot arc that utilizes a high frequency to conduct electricity in the air. Plasma cutters are easier to start, but the high frequency can interfere with nearby computers and equipment. High-frequency cutters are cheaper and have a more stable arc, but they are limited by the need to start from scratch close to the metal.

Weigh the cost of the material. Due to the nature of plasma, plasma cutting torches have many parts that need to be replaced periodically. If you're using a handheld torch, you'll have to replace the retaining cap, shield, nozzle, electrode and swirl ring. Once all of these parts begin to deteriorate, cutting performance is compromised. Logically, the fewer parts there are, the fewer parts will need to be replaced and the lower the total cost in the long run. Some manufacturers will provide an estimate of how long the parts will last.

Still not sure which cut is right for you? Overall, you should consider the practicalities of your own situation. Time and budget constraints affect whether we use a laser CNC machine service or a plasma cutter. Additionally, the thickness of the project, the material and the level of detail required will all have an impact on our final product. Nonetheless, one thing you can be assured of is that the final product will be exactly what you want it to be! Contact the experienced team at UTECH today to shop for a machine you'll be happy with!

Shandong U-May CNC Technology Co., Ltd. has a team of R&D experts with more than 8 years of experience, proficient in various CNC machinery, and can provide you with the highest quality machines and the most considerate services. If you need a CNC plasma cutting machine, please contact UTECH The team customizes the right machine for you.