This paper presents a direct comparison of Fiber laser and CO2 laser cutting machines from a ‘what laser should you buy next?’ point of view. Both types of machine have their drawbacks and advantages, and a direct comparison needs to compare costs, cutting speeds, cut quality and several other factors including maintenance and safety considerations. The overall conclusion of the paper is that, from a jobshop perspective, the CO2 laser is more versatile tool - but a fiber laser would be a useful addition to an existing team of 3 or 4 CO2 machines. On the other hand, for manufacturers of such things as white goods and air extraction equipment – where thin sheet metal is cut in large quantities – the fiber laser is the obvious choice.
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© 2012 Laser Institute of America.
2012
Laser Institute of America
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