Laser cutting is a technology that is increasingly used both at the industrial level and by small companies and consumers. Thanks to the technological evolution in this sector in recent years, laser cutting and engraving machines have become more efficient, smaller, but also more affordable.
One of the most popular and used materials is Plexiglas, which is due to the fact that by laser cutting and engraving, incredible objects are obtained, this cutting process is the most suitable compared to other similar technologies.
But in order to create such materials, whether they are promotional, decorative or for other purposes without encountering problems, it will be necessary to take certain factors into account in order to successfully complete the project.
5 tips to complete your project successfully
- Choose the appropriate power
Like any other material that will be laser cut, it will be necessary to select the power according to the thickness so that you can cut without problems. For plexiglass sheets with a size of 3 or 4 mm, a power of up to 50 W will be sufficient to have the desired results.
For those with a thickness of more than 2 cm, a laser with a power between 250 and 300 W is suitable. As a general rule and an easier way to guide yourself, approximately 10 W of power will be required for every 1 mm of thickness.
- Prepare the model
Plexiglas can be cut with a laser on both sides, but most of the time it is advisable to engrave on the back in order to have a finished face and to ensure that the final product will have a much more pleasant appearance. When you do this, you must be careful and arrange the text and images so that they are engraved in the mirror and they will be read correctly on the other side.
- Allow adequate cutting space
When cutting with a laser cutting machine, you must take into account that the size between two passes is directly proportional to the thickness of the material. For example, if you use plexiglass with a thickness of 3 mm, you must leave a space of 3 mm between the cuts. In this way, the created object will have better resistance and there will be no structural issues.
- Use air assistance as little as possible
Unlike other materials that can benefit from this function, such as paper or cardboard, in the case of Plexiglas you will have to use it less. Compressed air has the role of cleaning the cutting area of debris, but in the case of this material, the temperature can drop, which will produce unsatisfactory results and blunt edges.
- Beware of smoke
Plastic in general produces toxic fumes when subjected to high temperatures and plexiglas is no different. Make sure that there is an efficient ventilation system in the room where you will be charging so that you do not inhale the harmful smoke.
What applications does laser-cut plexiglass have?
Decorative objects – decorative elements can be made both for home and for commercial spaces. Being an easy-to-process material that allows a high level of precision, countless transparent or colored objects can be created, so that they match the current setting and design.
- Advertising production – one of its biggest applications is for the production of advertising signals, both indoors and outdoors.
- Promotional materials – materials can be made to help you promote the ongoing campaigns, such as keychains, prizes and many others.
Plexiglass is one of the lightest and most attractive materials that can be cut with a laser. Thanks to its help you can create countless objects, but you have to pay attention to the presented aspects to achieve a perfect cut.