Re: machining a laser cut edge


John wrote:


We are looking at purchasing a laser for cutting flat sheets. I am
wondering how tough the laser cut edge is on milling cutters.

We will be cutting A36 steel about 95% of the time, there will be some 6061
aluminum thrown in, but I can't see that being much of a problem

We currently have a plasma machine and we don't even bother attempting to
machine those edges. It is just too tough on the cutters.

Is the laser going to be the same, or is it somewhat better?




An OA cut edge is, by definition, burned. Plasma is kind of the same
way. Laser can be the same way, if cut with oxygen assist.

The scale is what eats up cutters. A36 won't harden from the heat and
quench.

I've milled laser cut steel without any trouble. Like Cliff said, the
"zone" is pretty small and you can conventional cut, which keeps the
cutting edge in clean metal.

Laser scale flakes off easy, you can use wire or tumble to remove the
abrasive layer.

If necessary, you can use an inert gas when you cut to eliminate the
scale, but you'll loose cutting efficiency.

I've never milled laser cut aluminum, but I wouldn't underestimate the
difficulty you'll encounter cutting the gummy aluminum in the HAZ. And
aluminum oxide is more abrasive than ferric oxide.

.