CO₂ Or Fiber Laser Power?

When it comes to cutting metals today, there are literally over 100 different types of metals that can be processed. Depending on the industry you are in, you will likely need to laser cut at least one or more types of metals. Fiber or gas (usually CO2) lasers represent the two most common processes for metalworking, both ferrous and non-ferrous. YAG or crystal laser technology has been used primarily for thick metal cutting in the past, but is more expensive and has a significantly shorter lifespan than CO2 and fiber laser processing.

Most sheet metal cutting applications (especially under 6mm) are primarily processed using fiber cutting systems. CO2, on the other hand, has the advantage and disadvantage that it can really only process stainless steel, but can also process organic materials such as wood, acrylic, leather, fabric, stone, etc.

Fiber laser beams offer a metal-friendly wavelength that metals absorb more effectively. The smaller spot size and excellent beam profile make it ideal for cutting most metals. Most notably, fiber is 2-3 times faster linearly than CO2 when cutting thin sheet metal, 5mm thick or less.

In terms of operating costs, fiber requires only about 1/3 the operating power compared to CO2. In addition, fiber has less downtime and less ongoing maintenance, which increases productivity.

As a result, fiber has quickly replaced traditional CO2 lasers in most metal cutting applications.