A Guide to Buying an Awesome Laser Cutting Machine

If you’re looking to do some precision cutting, there is no better tool for you to consider than a laser cutting machine. With the help of a laser, you’ll be able to precisely cut materials in a way that would be hard to achieve with anything else. Though if you’re looking to buy a laser cutting machine, but you’ve never bought a laser cutting machine before, you probably have no idea in terms of where to get started. If this is the case, you need not worry, as there are few key distinctions you’ll want to pay attention to, in order to ensure you’re getting the right machine for you.

What Will You Be Using the Machine For?

There are many different laser cutting machines that exist, and though they’re all effective in their nature, you’ll need to get something that is effective at cutting the kind of materials you’re looking to work with. For example, will you be working primarily with metal or wood? Of course your options here are endless, though it’s key to have a sense of what you’re looking to do, making it easier to purchase a machine that won’t fail you during the laser cutting process.

How Much Space do You Have

Another thing you’ll want to consider when it comes to buying a laser cutting machine, is the amount of space you have in the first place. Laser cutting machines vary in their size, as the more powerful ones, tend to be larger. If you’re looking to get something that’s really powerful therefore, make sure you are aware of the demands it will place on you in terms of space required, so you can make the best decision when finally purchasing one for the location you’re thinking of keeping it in.

Need for Speed?

The power of a laser cutter could be indicative of a couple of things. One of these is that the laser cutter might be more powerful, hence it might be able to cut materials that are stronger in their nature. However, a laser cutter that is more powerful, might also be able to do things much quicker than other laser cutters, as the laser is able to move around with greater agility, and speed. If this is something that matters to you, and you’re looking to get the task done quickly, think about getting yourself a laser cutter that’s high in power, so you’re not left waiting around.

You’re Next Purchase?

A laser cutter can be a great tool when it comes to cutting materials with high levels of precision, in a way that’s easy, and effective. In order to make the most out of laser cutting though, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got the right laser cutter in the first place. Getting the right one can be a little tricky, yet be ensuring you know what you want to cut, and what your restrictions are in terms of space, there shouldn’t be too many worries when it comes to getting a laser cutter that’ll help you get the job done properly.

How To Use A Laser Cutter

If your business deals with cutting or engraving materials, you’ll probably already own and use a laser cutter. However, if you’re new to Laser cutter, you might well want some information on the application of these devices. If that applies to you, this guide will fill you in on everything you need to know about laser cutters, and how to use them.

What Is A Laser Cutter?

Laser cutting  provided by companies like JK Lasers is used in industrial manufacturing but it can also be used on a small scale production. Most often associated with cutting metals, laser cutters make it easier to achieve accurate results. Cutting by hand can be a rather time consuming and laborious task, requiring the worker to be incredibly skilled, but with a laser cutter, a basic understanding of computers and cutting software is all that is needed.

I’m a Small Business, Where Can I Buy A Laser Cutter?

Laser cutters can be found at specialist hardware retailers, or you can even pick up lasers online if you know where to look. For small businesses, the cost is often unwarranted, so perhaps you should look into either renting or leasing one. A simple internet search for “laser cutters” should throw up thousands of useful results.

How Do I Start Using It?

Now you’ve got hold of a laser cutter, you’ll probably want to test it out. Firstly you’ll need to identify the image you wish to cut. This could be a photograph or drawing in your possession. Then you need to upload this image via your computer and import it into the laser cutters included software.

After this has been completed, you’ll want to choose a suitable material. Most people choose either aluminium, acrylic, glass, wood, or laser safe plastic. Make sure you check that the lense on the laser cutter is clean before you start cutting (you should find instructions about how to do this with your manual, as it varies from machine to machine).

Can I Start Cutting Now?

Yes you can. Simply turn the machine on and wait for it to warm up. Then log into the software on your computer, select the appropriate image, and press print. Once you’ve done this, a menu should appear on your screen, asking which cutting method you’d like to use.

Generally, there are two cutting methods available: raster & vector. The first is used when you wish to only engrave your chosen material, whilst the second is used when you wish to cut pieces out completely.

Anything Else To Consider?

Depending on the material size and shape, you’ll probably want to set your cutting line, and cutting speed accordingly. Don’t forget that wider lines will usually take much longer to cut, and may result in some jagged edges.

So there you have it my friends. A short and simple guide to purchasing, leasing, and setting up a laser cutter ready for use in any environment. Hopefully now you’ll have a better idea of what these machines can be used to achieve. Just remember, safety is always paramount when using any industrial machine, so make sure you read through your new cutters manual thoroughly before use.