Laser Cutting Pressure & Material Thickness Capabilities
Discover the cutting pressure, material thickness, and cutting speed that laser machines can handle across different materials.
Cutting Pressure
The cutting pressure of a laser machine is one of the most critical factors determining its efficiency. The pressure required depends on the type of material being cut, its thickness, and the power of the laser machine.

Typically, laser cutting machines operate with varying pressures based on the material type:
- For steel and stainless steel, pressures between 0.5 to 1.5 MPa are common.
- For aluminum, the cutting pressure may range from 0.5 to 1.0 MPa.
- For thinner materials like paper or plastics, pressures can be lower.
Material Thickness & Cutting Speed
Laser cutting machines can handle a wide range of material thicknesses. The thickness that can be cut depends on the laser power and the material type.
The following table provides a general guideline for material thickness and cutting speeds:
Material | Max Thickness (mm) | Cutting Speed (m/min) |
---|---|---|
Carbon Steel | 25 mm | 2-4 m/min |
Stainless Steel | 20 mm | 1-3 m/min |
Aluminum | 15 mm | 2-5 m/min |
Brass | 10 mm | 1-3 m/min |
Plastic | 5 mm | 5-10 m/min |
Note: These values may vary depending on the specific laser cutting system used and the power of the laser. High-power lasers can cut thicker materials at faster speeds.
Cutting Speed & Efficiency
The cutting speed of a laser cutting machine depends on the laser power, material thickness, and the material's reflective properties. Here's an overview of how speed varies:
- Higher-powered lasers allow for faster cutting speeds but may require more cooling and greater energy consumption.
- Materials like copper and brass, which have high reflectivity, often require slower speeds for clean cuts.
- Thicker materials generally require slower cutting speeds to maintain quality and precision.

Want to Learn More About Cutting Capabilities?
If you are looking for a laser cutting machine that suits your material needs, contact us for more details and product recommendations.
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