What are the Alternatives to Laser Cutting Technology?

Here are some of the alternative cutting techniques that industries use and their performance in comparison to laser cutters:

Water Jet Cutting

Water jet cutting stands its own against laser cutters. Waterjet provides the benefit of no molten material since it is a cold-cutting process. Laser, however, provides benefits such as a better edge and higher precision. The lack of water requirement is another point in favor of laser cutters.

Plasma Cutting

Plasma cutting also works by melting the material at the cut area. However, plasma cutting only works for electrically conductive materials like metals and alloys. This is a huge disadvantage of the process. Laser cutters can work on any material. They also provide engraving properties.

EDM Cutting

EDM cutting removes material by electrical discharges. Like plasma cutting, EDM is also limited to conductive metals. However, laser works on all materials and provides better results. Laser is also capable of engraving, but EDM is not.

CNC Machining

CNC machining like milling and turning rely on physical cutting tools. These tools wear out fast due to friction with the material. However, a laser requires no physical tools. Additionally, laser cutters provide better precision than CNC machines.

Punching

Punching creates cutouts through the physical force of the die. Punching can be a cheap metalworking process. However, the quality and precision of punching is quite poor. Laser cutters provide much better results.

3D Printing

3D printing is used for the additive manufacturing of plastic materials. They cannot replicate the results of laser machines. 3D printed products have significant defects that are often visible. The results of 3D printers are quite inferior to a laser machine. Additionally, 3D printers have a limited material range.