L Series - Material Safety Precautions

Modified on Thu, 15 Dec, 2022 at 9:46 AM

The L1810 Gen2 laser cutter can process a broad range of materials. Choose only material types that do not generate harmful emission during the cutting process. Check with the material supplier or manufacturer before cutting.


The following materials are NOT SUITABLE for being laser-cut:

  • Leather and artificial leather that contains chromium (VI)
  • Carbon fibres (Carbon)
  • Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
  • Polyvinyl butyral (PVB)
  • Polytetrafluorethylenes (PTFE / Teflon)
  • Beryllium oxide
  • Any materials containing halogens (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine), epoxy or phenolic resins.


PVC


When cutting PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) with a laser, chlorine gas is created. Chlorine gas in itself is very dangerous for human beings. It is also hazardous for the laser equipment, as chlorine gas will interact with the moisture in the air and create hydrochloric acid. This acid is very corrosive to any machine parts.


Metal


For cutting metal you need higher laser power than the ones we supply, together with assist gas (generally oxygen) and special optics to stop flashback. Flashback is when the metal reflects the laser beam back into the laser module. Using assist gas typically gives a poor edge, which needs additional handling to finish the work piece.


Glass


Glass absorbs laser energy and heat. It will fracture and chip because of this. These fractures also generates small glass dust, which can be harmful for human beings.


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