Things To Consider When Buying A Laser Cutter

A laser cutter is a wonderful tool for detailed work, but they aren’t all created equal. In today’s article we’re going over a couple of common questions people often ask when buying a laser cutter and the things you should consider before making your purchase.

But First, What Is A Laser Cutter?

A laser cutter is a machine that provides precision cutting. They are ideal for those who often work on delicate or detailed pieces and can easily slice through most materials – including metal.

How Does A Laser Cutter Differ From An Engraver?

In terms of differences between a laser cutter and an engraver, they do tend to be minimal. The main difference is that the latter is generally not capable of slicing while the former, when you have the right version and setting, can both slice and engrave. This makes it an ideal multi-purpose tool and an asset to any workshop.

What Are The Safety Requirements For Using A Laser Cutter?

The first thing you need to do upon unboxing your machine is read the instructions and learn how it works, this ensures proper operation and keeps everyone safer. As with any tool that produces heat, it is a good idea to have a fire extinguisher close by when working. Regularly cleaning your machine will help reduce the chances of unintentional fire, however, it is better to be safe than sorry. Additionally, appropriate safety gear, including eye protection should always be worn and any applicable guards must be in place before you start work. Always follow safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer with your machine.

Considerations When Buying A Laser Cutter:

Strength

Possibly the biggest thing you need to consider is the strength of the beam. This will impact not only what you can slice, but how well you can slice it so should always be kept at the front of your mind whenever you’re considering a machine.

Size

While the overall size of the machine probably won’t have much impact on quality or usability (unless you want to slice particularly large materials) it will impact how well your new toy fits into your workshop as well as where you can place it. This is important in terms of workflow as the easier it is to move between machines in the correct order, the more productive and efficient your day will be.

Longevity

Another consideration is the longevity of your machine. Cheaper options may not last as long as their more expensive counterparts so it could certainly be worth forking out a little extra up front to avoid having to send your new machine into early retirement. While it can certainly be tempting to simply select the most budget friendly option that fits your needs, remember the saying – only a rich man can afford to buy cheap shoes.

System Integration

The final thing to consider is how well your new machine will integrate with the rest of your workshop. While hardware often exists as separate elements that sit side by side, software can sometimes overlap, and this is great for productivity. Considering how well your new machine will get along with your digital ecosystem before making your purchase can save you a lot of time and money down the track. At this point you should also refer back to our previous point about the overall size and double check that your new laser cutter will fit exactly where you want it to.

Now you know what to look out for when selecting a laser cutter, all that’s left to do is decide on the model and make your purchase.