Custom metal prototype laser cutting for 1.0 to 20.0mm steel and aluminum

The key differences between steel laser cutting and aluminum laser cutting are as follows:

Laser Power Requirements:
Steel generally requires higher laser power compared to aluminum to achieve effective cutting. The higher thermal conductivity and reflectivity of steel make it more challenging to cut efficiently.
Aluminum, on the other hand, has a lower melting point and can be cut effectively with lower laser power.

Cutting Speed:
Due to the differences in material properties, aluminum can typically be cut at higher speeds compared to steel, all else being equal.
The lower melting point and thermal conductivity of aluminum allow for faster laser cutting speeds, leading to higher productivity.

Edge Quality:
The edge quality of laser-cut steel parts tends to be rougher and more uneven compared to aluminum parts.
Aluminum, with its lower melting point and higher thermal conductivity, often produces cleaner, smoother cut edges with less dross (solidified molten material) formation.

Tolerance and Precision:
Laser cutting of aluminum generally allows for tighter tolerances and higher precision compared to steel cutting, due to the material's more consistent response to the laser energy.
The higher thermal conductivity of steel can make it more challenging to maintain tight dimensional control during the cutting process.

Post-Processing:
Aluminum parts often require less post-processing, such as deburring or edge finishing, compared to steel parts after laser cutting.
The cleaner cut edges of aluminum can reduce the need for extensive secondary operations.

Surface Oxidation:
During laser cutting, steel is more prone to surface oxidation, which can affect the appearance and potentially the corrosion resistance of the cut parts.
Aluminum, on the other hand, forms a thin, protective oxide layer that can be beneficial for certain applications.

It's important to note that these differences can be influenced by factors such as laser power, cutting parameters, assist gases, and the specific grade or alloy of the steel or aluminum being processed. Skilled operators and appropriate machine settings are crucial for achieving optimal results in both steel and aluminum laser cutting applications.