Laser cutting and engraving are very popular in the modern world. Because they are fast and accurate, people have replaced many traditional methods with this technology. A laser cutting and engraving machine can be used for various projects.
Another great advantage of using a laser device is its versatility. You can work with almost all types of solid materials. However, some materials are not typically suitable for laser engraving. Some produce toxic fumes, while others may ignite. Reflective materials may damage surrounding and nearby objects. Coated or composite materials can not offer a clean cut.
Well, nothing is impossible. You may do some tricks to complete the work, though. This article highlights all the materials that are not suitable for laser engraving. You will understand why they are not appropriate. However, this article aims to choose the right material for your project. Let’s dig in.
Materials That are not Suitable for Laser Cutting and Engraving
As said, not all materials are safe for laser cutting and engraving. Some produce toxic fumes, while some catch fire. In this section, you will be familiar with some materials that may not be suitable for laser cutting and engraving.
Type #1 Hazardous Fumes & Toxic Gases
Laser cutting or engraving uses a high-power laser beam, which creates high heat. It produces sufficient heat that burns or vaporizes materials. But, some materials, when doing this, may produce toxic fumes. These fumes can be hazardous to your body, especially your lungs.
PVC
PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is one of the most common types of plastic. People widely use it to make pipes, banners, signs, and various consumer products. When you use a laser machine to cut it, it produces chlorine.
Chlorine is a very toxic and corrosive gas. Inhaling it can cause various breathing problems and damage the laser’s internal parts. However, you can use a controlled environment to cut PVC pipes.
Artificial Leather
Artificial leather is also known as synthetic leather. It is typically made of PVC or polyurethane. Like regular PVC, laser engraving on artificial leather also creates toxic chemicals. As you know, this fume is harmful, and you must ensure a controlled environment.
Epoxy
Epoxy is a popular adhesive for coatings and composites. When a laser is used on it, it creates toxic fumes. These fumes can irritate the lungs and create a sticky residue inside the machine. Also, epoxy doesn’t cut cleanly.
Glued Materials
There are various types of glued materials, the most common of which are plywood, MDF, and laminated boards. Different types of adhesives produce varying toxic gases, including formaldehyde. If you must cut wood, it’s better to choose laser-safe plywood.
Foam Core Boards with Adhesives
Foam core boards are lightweight and widely used for displays and signs. They contain adhesives, which, like glued materials, produce toxic fumes when burned. Foam core boards are also highly flammable. They may catch fire or melt, leading to a sticky mess. Because of this, we always recommend using safer alternatives, like acrylic sheets or cardboard.
Type #2 Flammable Materials
Apart from producing toxic gases, there are several other complications when choosing materials for laser engraving. Among them, the fire problem is quite noticeable. Such materials quickly catch fire when they come into contact with the laser. This puts both your product and the machine at risk. Below are some materials that are very popular but are not suitable for laser cutting or engraving.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
ABS plastic is popular because of its strength. It is widely used in 3D printing, car parts, and toys. However, it is not safe for laser cutting. ABS doesn’t vaporize cleanly. Instead, it melts and produces thick and sticky fumes. These fumes can be toxic and create a fire hazard. Burning ABS may also release cyanide gas.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is also a common type of plastic. It is very lightweight, and people widely use it in packaging and textiles. Regular PP plastic has a low melting point and is highly flammable. When cut with a laser, PP tends to catch fire quickly. The melted plastic can also drip and stick to your laser machine. During this process, you may also feel a strong and unpleasant odor. Therefore, PP plastic is usually not suitable for laser cutting and engraving.
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
HDPE is a flexible plastic widely used in milk bottles and plastic containers. However, it is usually unsuitable for laser cutting because it melts instead of cutting cleanly. You may laser mark it; however, it is unfit for cutting or engraving.
Oily or Resinous Wood
Some types of wood contain natural oils or resins. Some popular oily or resinous woods are pine, cedar, and other softwoods. The oils in the wood are typically responsible for catching fire. When you cut this wood with a laser, oily wood can catch fire easily. The burning resist also produces thick smoke. If you want to cut wood, choose dry hardwoods or laser-safe plywood.
Type #3 Reflective Materials
Apart from toxic fumes and fire, there is another problem: reflection. Laser beams are typically a type of light that reflects on mirror surfaces. Some materials, especially those with mirror-like surfaces, can reflect this laser beam.
When a material reflects this laser beam, it can cause several issues. The laser may hit an area it shouldn’t—your skin or objects nearby—damaging the laser machine, its optics, or other components. Because of this, reflective materials are typically unsuitable for laser cutting and engraving.
Type #4 Coated Fiberglass
Fiberglass is naturally a strong material made from glass fibers and resin. People widely use this material for construction, auto parts, and boat manufacturing. However, fiberglass is not safe for laser cutting.
When you intend to cut fiberglass with a laser, the resin in it burns and releases toxic fumes. Of course, these fumes are harmful to your health. Coated fiberglass is even more dangerous as it can release extra harmful chemicals. Because of this, it is wise to avoid cutting coated fiberglass with a laser device.
Type #5 Polycarbonate Plastic
Polycarbonate Plastic is generally more durable than ABS plastic. It is widely used for eyewear lenses, light covers, and safety equipment. However, although it is robust and durable, it is unsuitable for laser cutting.
When you use a laser to cut PC plastic, it burns instead of vaporizing cleanly. As a result, the edges discolor and melt, leaving a messy and unattractive finish. The laser also produces toxic gases, which are not suitable for your lungs. Thus, PC plastic is not ideal for laser cutting and engraving.
Summary
Laser cutting and engraving are widely used in most modern fabrication industries. This technology can work with a wide range of materials. However, certain materials are not suitable for laser cutting. Some produce toxic gases, some are flammable, and some are reflective, while some can not offer clean cuts. Therefore, you must be careful when choosing the right materials.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact HiSpeed Laser Customer Support.