Laser and plasma cutting are very suitable methods for CNC (computer numerical control) machining production processes.
Both technologies are thermal processes commonly used in industrial environments to cut metals.
The main difference between the two technologies lies in the source of the technology’s cutting power:
Laser cutting machines use a narrow, intense beam of light to cut materials, while plasma cutters use a device to generate a directed plasma flow for cutting. Both laser and plasma use consumable gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, etc.
Laser cutting is faster, more precise and produces a better surface finish than plasma cutting. They can cut 2 times more precisely than plasma cutters. The precision of a laser cut has a range of 0.05 mm or 0.002 inches, equivalent to the thickness of a hair.
Based on Our Experience:
Regarding the use of the machines, laser cutters and plasma cutters are very similar. The software they use to cut metal is also remarkably similar. So if you have a plasma and want to switch to laser because of its speed, it will be a very quick learning process.
People who use plasma always tell us that they should be more careful when using the cutter. It usually requires more maintenance.
With the laser the production speed is much higher than plasma. In addition, sometimes the final finish of the plasma will require a deburring process, increasing the production cost.
In conclusion, if you can cut many pieces in less time, you will get more money in exchange for the time invested. Therefore, if you are looking to cut metal in high or low production in RF, we have Laser cutting technology.