Laser Cutter Research Paper

Content Page

Contents Page

1. Introduction 2

2. Waterjet Cutting Process 2

2.1 Waterjet Cutting Process Operation Principle 2

2.2 Waterjet Cutting Process Applications 3

3. Laser Cutting Process 3

3.1 Laser Cutting Process Description 3

3.2 Laser Cutting Process Application. 4

5. Plasma Cutting Process 6

6. Conclusion 8

7. Bibliography 9

1. Introduction

Cutting is a process used to remove materials from either a metal, non-metal or other objects. However, according to (Ramalingam, 2002), it is to neither penetrate with a sharp edge nor strike a narrow opening in or against a material. It is usually by means of using different tools to remove materials and it is done by a to-and-from movement applied on the material or

According to (Architect, 2013, p. 10), Laser cutters work by directing a very powerful laser beam, at a precise focal length, onto a material which they either cut or etch, depending on how the laser cutter has been set up. Laser cutters cut materials similarly to other computer controlled tools, only they do so using a beam of light as opposed to a blade.

3.2 Laser Cutting Process Application.

When laser cutters are set up to etch something on the surface of a material, they operate like a printer, literally using their laser beam to etch an image onto something. However, such operation requires skilled individuals to operate these machines. Such cuts as seen in figure 3.2 are

These system components provide the electrical energy, ionization capability and process control that is necessary to produce high quality, highly productive cuts on a variety of different materials (Architect, 2013, p. 23).

The power supply is a constant current DC power source. The open circuit voltage is typically in the range of 240 to 400 VDC. The output current (amperage) of the power supply determines the speed and cut thickness capability of the system. The main function of the power supply is to provide the correct energy to maintain the plasma arc after ionization.

The arc starting circuit is a high frequency generator circuit that produces an AC voltage of 5,000 to 10,000 volts at approximately 2 megahertz. This voltage is used to create a high intensity arc inside the torch to ionize the gas, thereby producing the plasma. The Torch serves as the holder for the consumable nozzle and electrode, and provides cooling (either gas or water) to these parts. The nozzle and electrode constrict and maintain the plasma