Lasercuttere

Lasercuttere is a term sometimes used to describe laser cutting devices; the standard term is laser cutter or laser cutting machine. A laser cutter uses a focused laser beam to cut, engrave, or etch materials with high precision. The process is typically computer controlled and can follow complex vector designs from CAD/CAM software.

Operation and technology: Most systems employ CO2, fiber, or diode lasers. The laser beam is focused through lenses or mirrors onto the workpiece. The machine translates a digital design into a path, and the laser either removes material by melting, burning, or vaporizing, or engraves by displacing surface material at lower power. Cutting speeds vary with material and laser power.

Materials: CO2 lasers work well with organic materials such as wood, plywood, acrylic, rubber, leather, textiles, and many plastics. Fiber lasers are efficient for metal cutting and marking, including aluminum, steel, and some stainless steels. Some systems can engrave glass, stone, or composites. Reflective metals require caution and, often, a more robust machine to avoid back-reflection.

Applications: Laser cutters are used in manufacturing, signage, packaging, jewelry, electronics enclosures, prototyping, and hobbyist projects. They enable rapid iteration, precise cuts, and fine engravings, often in small to medium production runs.

Safety and regulation: Laser cutting involves hazards from high-intensity light, heat, and fumes. Enclosures, proper ventilation, and laser safety eyewear are standard. Local regulations may require interlocks, emergency stop devices, and training for operators. Routine maintenance includes alignment checks and replacing lenses or nozzles.

History: Laser cutting emerged in the 1960s and 1970s with CO2 and solid-state lasers. Desktop and benchtop models became common in the 1990s and 2000s, expanding access to makerspaces, schools, and small businesses.