Four Jobs Laser Cutters Can Do Other Than Cut Metal
Although laser cutting equipment is often associated with its ability to form sheet metal into sections accurately and quickly, it can do much more. Read on to find out more about the sort of work you can get done by a laser cutting firm that could speed up your production methods while also potentially saving your firm thousands of dollars over time.
1. Engraving and Etching
Laser cutters are highly effective at engraving and etching intricate designs onto a variety of materials. They can be used to create custom signage, promotional items, awards and even personalised gifts. Laser engraving is a contactless process, meaning the laser cutter does not physically touch the material it is working on, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring a high level of detail. Materials suitable for laser engraving include wood, acrylic, glass, leather and certain types of plastics. A laser cutter engraves by either removing a thin layer of material to reveal a contrasting colour beneath or changing the material's texture to create a visible design.
2. Textile Cutting
Laser cutters are also adept at working on textiles, making them valuable tools in the fashion and textile industries. The precision of the laser beam allows for the creation of intricate patterns, clean edges and complex shapes that would be challenging or time-consuming to achieve using traditional cutting methods. In addition to cutting fabrics, laser cutters can also be used to create intricate appliqué designs, heat transfer vinyl for custom garments and even laser perforation for breathable fabrics.
3. Paper Cutting and Cardstock
Laser cutters can work wonders with paper and cardstock, allowing for the creation of delicate and intricate designs that are difficult to achieve using conventional cutting tools. They can cut, score, or perforate paper materials, enabling the production of custom invitations, greeting cards, packaging and more. Laser cutting allows for the creation of highly detailed designs that would be nearly impossible to achieve by hand, giving artists and designers the freedom to explore new creative possibilities.
4. Woodworking and Furniture
Laser cutters have found a home in the woodworking and furniture-making industries due to their ability to cut and engrave various types of wood with high precision. They can be used to create intricate inlays, custom decorative elements and even functional components of furniture pieces. Their ability to produce clean, precise cuts with minimal material waste makes it an efficient and environmentally friendly option for woodworking projects. Laser cutting also offers the advantage of creating complex designs that would be difficult or time-consuming to achieve using traditional woodworking tools.
For more information about laser cutting, contact a local business.