The desktop laser marking machine provides you with various customized options. Although called a desktop laser marking machine, they can be used for surface marking, deep engraving, and cutting various materials. While you may often see them used for wood, it is not the only material they can process. In fact, desktop laser engraving machine like EM-Smart Dual, can handle multiple materials, determining which materials are suitable for laser engraving and cutting is also essential.
In this blog, we will explore which materials are suitable for laser engraving and cutting and we will provide some tips to help you achieve excellent results in laser cutting.
For laser marking enthusiasts and manual creators, a right desktop laser marking machine can be called a creative tool. Its operating interface is simple and intuitive, and the operation tutorial is easy to obtain on the network, so that ideas can be quickly landed. The equipment supports the import of multiple graphic formats, which can transform the design into personalized works. Whether engrave unique wooden ornaments or make exclusive patterns on leather, it can be easily realized, greatly improving the creative freedom.
In addition, its compact body does not take up much space, suitable for home or studio use; Its low maintenance costs, can effectively control the expenses. At the same time, non-contact cutting avoids material deformation and damage, ensuring the quality of the work. The environmental protection and energy saving characteristics also make the creative process more secure. It is an excellent choice for manual creation and interest exploration. The following are common materials suitable for desktop laser marking:
Cutting hard wood materials (walnut, oak, cherry, etc.) will produce a lot of smoke.
Desktop laser marking machines are generally not used for cutting metal, but rather for metal engraving processes.
However, thin metal laser cutting can be achieved under specific parameter adjustments. Among metal materials, in addition to common aluminum, copper, and stainless steel sheets, galvanized sheets—coated with a protective zinc layer—can also be laser-cut with appropriate parameters, often used to create small corrosion-resistant metal components. Below are parameter references and video examples for cutting stainless steel sheets with the EM-Smart Dual:
Plastics are common materials for laser cutting and engraving. They are synthetic materials with varying colors, thicknesses, and surface finishes. After laser cutting, their edges become smooth and surfaces smooth. Black acrylic is the most widely used plastic for laser engraving anf cutting. However, transparent acrylic reduces laser efficiency, so coated or laminated acrylic is typically used for engraving or cutting. You can create beautiful glass-style artworks such as decorations, signs, displays, jewelry, and wall art.
Not all plastics are suitable for laser cutting. Some may contain chlorine or other harmful substances that release toxic fumes when heated by lasers. Always verify material composition before laser-cutting plastics. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation during the process. Below is a video of the EM-Smart Dual cutting acrylic:
Laser engraving can perform well in leather, while laser cutting achieves smooth edges, power and speed settings are critical for leather. Excessive power burns the leather, while insufficient power fails to cut through. Thicker leather requires higher power. Post-cutting, edges may darken slightly. Manual cutting often yields more ideal results. Laser markers are typically used for fine leather engraving.
Due to paper’s fragility and sensitivity to pressure, mechanical cutting methods often compromise quality. Laser cutting applies no physical force, ensuring flawless edges and enhanced aesthetic appeal. Laser markers can achieve shallow engravings on paper.
Unlike traditional sandblasting, laser engraving offers higher precision for intricate details. Glass transparency creates clear or frosted patterns but poses challenges due to brittleness. Excessive heat may cause cracking. Pre-engraving steps include thorough cleaning and color application.
Rubber is versatile but less common in laser cutting. It can be engraved to make stamps, keychains, mats, or personalized Apple Watch bands. Laser cutting delivers unmatched edge smoothness for natural, silicone, or synthetic rubber. Ensure ventilation due to fume generation.
Despite hardness, lasers can engrave stone, slate, granite, marble, pebbles, ceramics, and similar materials. Diode laser engraving machines (lower power but affordable) and fiber laser engraving machines(high power for deeper, faster marks) are both viable.
There is no doubt that laser cutters can cut and engrave a wide variety of materials. However, some materials must never be processed with lasers. Avoid these materials as they are prone to catching fire and releasing harmful gases/fumes.
PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. It is a polymer that releases chlorine gas when exposed to laser radiation. First, this gas is irritating and can cause burns and irritation to the eyes, nose, skin, and respiratory tract. Second, the gas is corrosive. It can damage the machine frame made of metal. It also harms the laser and other components of the machine. Therefore, to ensure both machine longevity and personal safety, never cut or engrave PVC.
Polycarbonate is prone to discoloration and ignition when heated by lasers.
Neither of these foams is suitable for laser cutting. First, they are highly flammable. When attempting to cut them with a laser machine, they simply melt and cannot be cleanly cut.
Laser cutting is unsuitable for HDPE because it melts and becomes sticky under laser exposure. Additionally, it may ignite.
If carbon fiber has a coating, laser cutting will release various toxic gases from the coating. These fumes are highly hazardous and may cause respiratory illnesses.
Galvanized metal is coated with a layer of zinc to prevent rust. When the laser beam contacts galvanized metal, it heats and vaporizes the zinc coating. This process releases zinc oxide fumes into the air. Zinc oxide is harmful to human health. Since ensuring operator safety is critical, materials like galvanized metal that release toxic fumes are unsuitable for laser processing.
Similarly, products treated with zinc-containing composite sprays pose risks during laser processing. These sprays often contain zinc or other potentially hazardous substances, which release toxic fumes when heated by lasers.
As an all-in-one desktop laser marking machine, the EM-Smart Dual offers a total work area of 230mm*230mm, making it suitable for batch engraving and large-format projects.
All products in the EM-Smart series achieve a repeatability accuracy of ±0.002mm and a maximum engraving speed of 10,000mm/s, ensuring superior detail in engraving.
Unlike previous models, the Dual features a built-in dust extraction system and a laser protective cover, which helps minimize the dispersion of gases generated during operation.
The dual-source configuration (20W fiber + 20W diode) enhances the Dual’s compatibility with materials, enabling effortless engraving and cutting across a wide range.
The Dual’s integrated camera connects via the device’s Type-C port to precisely locate material positions.
Fiber laser marking machines excel at cutting metals but are not the preferred choice for non-metallic materials like rubber, wood, and acrylic. Their wavelength is less compatible, and most rubbers have poor absorption. For rubber applications, diode laser marking machines generally deliver better results.
This depends on the laser cutter’s type and power. Different laser types have varying capabilities and limitations when cutting materials. The machine’s power also determines the maximum cutting thickness. The EM-Smart Dual (20W fiber + 20W diode) can cut:
For diode laser engraving machines, applying a special coating may be necessary to ensure proper laser absorption.
Yes. Slightly dampening the leather makes it more flexible and enhances engraving results. It also reduces smoke generation during the process. Lightly sprinkle water on the leather surface—the goal is to moisten it, not soak it.
Aluminum is considered the most suitable metal for laser engraving. Its relatively low melting and vaporization points allow it to absorb laser energy and vaporize more easily than other metals.
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