Laser cutting of natural stone slabs Available to Purchase

Natural stones are considered to be one of the best materials in all type of constructions, due to its durability, easy maintenance and aesthetics. There are different varieties of natural stones, like granite marble, sandstone or slate. These kinds of material are difficult to machine by conventional methods; moreover noise and powder are produced during its cutting. In this work, we present the results of a series of experiments carried out to cut natural stone slabs of Black South Africa granite using a CO₂ laser assisted by a supersonic nozzle. The influence of the different parameters involved in the process, such as, average power, pulse frequency and nozzle position have been studied to characterize the cut geometry. Results from the tests show that it is possible to obtain sound cuts free of fractures in this type of natural stone.