Due to their chemical make-up, there are many materials which are unsuitable for laser cutting, engraving and marking. If processed these materials create dangerous dust or gases. Examples of these materials include:
Leather and artificial leather (only types containing chromium (VI)
Carbon fibers (Carbon)
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Polyvinyl butyrale (PVB)
Polytetrafluoroethylenes (PTFE /Teflon)
Beryllium oxide
Any material that contains halogens (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine and astatine), epoxy or phenolic resins
Care should be taken with any of the following materials:
Manganese
Chromium
Nickel
Cobalt
Copper
Lead
Caution with "flame-retardant" materials
Extra care should be taken when laser cutting or engraving "flame-retardant" materials as they often include bromine. For any flame-retardant materials, it is advisable to ask the manufacturer about the exact ingredients of your material.
What makes these materials unsuitable for laser engraving and laser cutting?
laser cutting or laser engraving any aforementioned material can produce hazardous dusts or gases, endangering the laser user, the functionality of the laser machine, or both. This is why we do not recommend using these materials.
Protect yourself with Trotec material testing
Unsure whether a material is safe for laser cutting or laser engraving? Contact us and we will happily advise you.
