How does laser cutting work
We will show you how laser cutting works and which materials you can cut with a laser.
Laser Cutters - SP Series
SP series: CO2 laser cutter for large-format materials. Product DetailsLaser cutting explained technically

HOW DOES LASER CUTTING WORK? HERE'S A SIMPLE EXPLANATION OF THE BASICS
Learn more about the process of laser cutting in this video
The advantages of a laser when cutting
Suited to many different materials | The only technology that can cut such a large amount of organic and synthetic materials. |
No post processing is necessary | Laser cutting is a technique that renders it unnecessary to perform any post-processing in most cases. It can even seal the edges of certain textiles, like synthetics or carpets, so that there are no frayed edges. This saves you from having to do post-processing procedures such as mechanical sealing or sanding, depending on which material is being worked on. |
High precision | The resultant kerf is only a tiny amount bigger than the laser beam itself. This allows you to cut very fine shapes of any kind. Additionally, integrated camera (JobControl Vision) can read registration marks on the material and automatically fix its cutting path accordingly—even if the original template is out of alignment, turned or otherwise distorted. |
Lack of tool wear | Laser cutting machines are not affected by wear. Things like the tool heads do not become dull from regular use. This property saves costs over the long run. |
Laser cutting, plasma cutting, mechanical cutting - cutting procedures in comparison

What materials can be cut with the laser?
You can see the range of possibilities for yourself from the following table.
Plastic | Miscellanious | Metal | |
---|---|---|---|
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) | Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) | Wood | Metal foils up to 0.5mm |
Acrylic/PMMA | Polyimide (PI) | Paper (white) | |
Rubber | Polyoxymethylene (POM) -i.e. Delrin® | Paper (colored) | |
Polyamide (PA) | Polypropylene (PP) | Food | |
Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) | Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) | Leather | |
Polycarbonate (PC) | Polystyrene (PS) | Fabric | |
Polyethylene (PE) | Polyurethane (PUR) | Cardboard | |
Polyester (PES) | Foam (PVC free) | Cork |
Trotec product recommendation for laser cutting:
Discover SP laser cutting machines
Other laser applications: Marking and engraving
Read below about the different laser processing methods: