Introduction

When selecting a fiber laser cutter, one of the most important factors to consider is the power of the laser source and how it affects both the thickness of the material you can cut and the speed at which you can do so. Fiber laser power ranges from 1.5kW to 80kW, and each power level offers unique advantages and limitations in terms of cutting capability. In this article, we’ll explore how different power levels impact the thickness and speed of cutting various materials, helping you make an informed decision that best suits your manufacturing needs.

1 Available Fiber Laser Power Options

Sheet metal laser cutting machines on the market today range from 1.5kW to 80kW. In this article, we will explore the characteristics and applications of different power levels. The cutting parameters discussed are based on data from SENFENG laboratories. Please note that actual parameters may vary due to material carbon content and technological advancements, and should be used for reference only.

1.1 1.5kW to 3kW: Thin Sheet Mastery

Low-power fiber lasers, such as those in the 1.5kW to 3kW range, are ideal for cutting thin sheets of metal. These lasers are highly efficient when it comes to cutting materials like stainless steel up to 12mm thick and carbon steel up to 20mm thick.

For example, a 3kW laser cutter can cut 4mm stainless steel at a speed of around 5.0-6.0 meters per minute. This makes it a great choice for industries that primarily work with thin metals and require precision and speed, such as in the production of kitchenware, power distribution cabinet, or metal billboard.

The cutting parameters are as follows:

1.2 4kW to 6kW: Versatile and Efficient

Fiber lasers in the 4kW to 6kW range offer a balance between cutting speed and material thickness. These fiber laser cutters are capable of cutting medium-thickness materials, such as 12-20mm stainless steel, 20-30mm carbon steel, 1-8mm brass and 1-16mm aluminum at moderate speeds. This power range is particularly useful for manufacturers who need versatility in their cutting capabilities, allowing them to handle a wider variety of projects. 

A 6kW laser, for example, can cut 14mm carbon steel at a speed of approximately 1.4-1.7 meter per minute. This makes it a popular choice for general manufacturing, including industries of sheet metal processing, steel structures, building supports, bridge components, shipbuilding, etc..

1.3 12kW to 30kW: Power and Precision

As we move up the power scale, metal sheet laser cutting machine in the 12kW to 30kW range become more suitable for cutting thicker materials with higher precision and speed. These lasers excel in cutting materials like 6-90mm stainless steel, 5-80mm carbon steel, 5-20mm brass and 5-60mm aluminum providing a high level of accuracy and finish quality.

For instance, a 12kW laser can cut 20mm carbon steel at a speed of approximately 1.3-1.4 meters per minute. This power range is ideal for heavy industries such as shipbuilding and heavy machinery manufacturing.

1.4 40kW to 80kW: Heavy-Duty Cutting

At the top end of the spectrum, laser cutting machine with power levels between 40kW and 80kW are designed for heavy-duty cutting tasks. These machines are capable of cutting extremely thick materials, such as 50-200mm stainless steel and carbon steel, at relatively high speeds. The speed and precision offered by these high-power lasers are unmatched, making them essential for industries that require cutting very thick materials quickly and efficiently. These high-power devices are mainly used in shipbuilding and marine engineering, heavy machinery manufacturing, bridges and large building structures, military industry and national defense, etc.

A 40kW CNC fiber laser cutter, for example, can cut 40mm carbon steel at a speed of approximately 0.9-2.3 meters per minute. Such machines are commonly used in the construction and energy sectors, where thick metal plates are a standard material.

2 Four Steps to Choose Laser Power

Here are four steps to help beginner buyers choose the right laser cutting machine power.

2.1 Materials

A sheet metal laser cutting machine can handle materials like carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and galvanized sheets. Since different materials absorb laser energy at varying rates, cutting speed and required power will differ. To ensure your machine meets your production needs, assess the types of materials your company frequently cuts and select a machine power that can consistently handle those materials.

2.2 Thickness

Understanding cutting thickness is crucial when selecting the right equipment. We recommend the 80/20 rule: choose a laser cutting machine with a power level that can consistently cut 80% of your company’s typical metal thickness, while still being capable of cutting the remaining 20% at its maximum capacity.

2.3 Speed

Generally speaking, the higher the power, the greater the cutting speed, making it more suitable for large-scale production. When choosing the right power level, consider your cutting requirements, efficiency needs, and production volume. However, in actual production, it’s essential to balance speed and cutting quality. Different materials and thicknesses require matching cutting speeds. If the speed is too fast, it can lead to issues like burrs, slanted stripes, or incomplete cuts on the material surface.

2.4 Budget

Finally, you need to choose the right device according to your budget. If the budget is not enough and it is the first time to buy it, it is recommended to choose the medium and low power, and then do the upgrading after accumulating good operating experience. If you have enough budget, you can choose high power, and the production efficiency will be higher

Conclusion

Choosing the right fiber laser power for your cutting needs is crucial for optimizing efficiency, cost, and quality. Whether you’re working with thin sheets or thick plates, understanding the capabilities and limitations of different power levels can help you make the best decision for your production requirements. From the precision of 1.5kW lasers to the heavy-duty power of 80kW machines, fiber lasers offer a wide range of options to meet the diverse needs of the manufacturing industry.

Investing in the right equipment not only enhances your cutting capabilities but also improves your overall production efficiency, ensuring that you can meet the demands of your customers while maintaining a competitive edge in the market. Whether you need speed, versatility, or the ability to cut the thickest materials, there’s a fiber laser power level that can help you achieve your goals.