The Differences Between Laser Cutting and Plasma Cutting

Our customers regularly ask whether plasma or laser cutting is better for their project. While both are forms of computer numerical control (CNC) cutting processes, they have some distinct differences that mean they’re not always interchangeable.

In this article, we’ve taken a closer look at the differences between plasma and laser cutting, as well as the sorts of projects that we would recommend each of these technologies be used for.

At Metal-Tech Industries, we have been supplying precision sheet metal components using the latest advanced manufacturing technologies in Brisbane for over 50 years. Get in touch with our expert team today to see how we can help.

What is Laser Cutting?

This technology allows us to cut using a concentrated beam of optic light (or laser) that melts and separates the material it comes into contact with. This versatile option cuts structural and pipe materials, as well as thin metal sheets.

There are three main types of laser – CO2 (the most popular, as it’s inexpensive and doesn’t need a lot of power), neodymium (also known as crystal laser cutters), and fibre (which utilise fibreglass).

As this technology is great for getting precise cuts and finishes, it’s used in a wide variety of industries (including electronics, medicine, and transportation). It’s a popular choice for cutting metals (like tungsten, steel, aluminium, brass, and nickel), but can also be used on non-metals (like silicon, timber, and ceramic).

What is Plasma Cutting?

This technology allows us to cut using a hot, electrically charged gas (such as argon or nitrogen) that passes through a small nozzle at up to an incredible 20,000°C. The gas hits the surface of a material with speed and pressure that melts or erodes it instantly.

Plasma cutting works only with conductive metals such as steel, stainless steel, and copper, because they complete the electrical circuit. As such, it’s a popular choice in the automotive, fabrication, and industrial construction industries.

The Key Differences Between Laser Cutting and Plasma Cutting

While the main point of difference between these technologies is their power source, there are many other differences to be aware of:

• Accuracy
  Laser cutting is more accurate than plasma. As it concentrates on a much smaller area, its cuts are also smoother (unlike the rougher cuts produced by plasma, which may need to be ground down).
• Cost
  Generally speaking, plasma cutters are more affordable to buy and operate than laser cutters.
• Cutting Surface
  Laser offers a smooth cutting surface with good cut quality and no burrs, which makes it ideal for more detailed designs. Plasma, on the other hand, results in more slag that needs to be removed.
• Maintenance
  Laser cutters generally require more maintenance than laser ones, which also adds to their operating costs.
• Materials
  While plasma cutting is limited to conductive metals only, laser cutting can be used with a variety of materials (including metal, timber, ceramic, and plastic). Plasma is, however, better at cutting reflective materials.
• Radiation
  Plasma cutters produce radiation, so protective equipment is a must when working with this technology. Laser cutters, on the other hand, don’t really produce any radiation.
• Sheet Thickness
  Plasma cutting can cut through metal sheets up to 38mm thick, while laser cutting tends to struggle with anything thicker than 19mm (although it can handle 25.4mm thick steel).
• Speed
  Laser cutting is faster and more energy efficient than plasma cutting, which is known for taking a long time.

Three Reasons Fabricators Prefer Laser Cutters

Many fabricators prefer laser cutting over other types of CNC cutting processes, and for good reason:

1. This technology allows fabricators to achieve a precise edge without any burrs that need to be ground off or smoothed.
2. Laser cutting is compatible with a wide variety of materials – not just metal – and thicknesses. Plus, it can also be used to engrave.
3. The size of a typical laser, coupled with the fact that they’re powered by a computer, means that detailed designs can be achieved.

Choose Metal-Tech Industries for All Your CNC Cutting Needs

At the end of the day, no one technology is ‘better’ than the other – both laser and plasma cutting have their advantages, and the decision of which will best suit your needs will depend on the specifics of the project. This is why it’s important to partner with a company that understands these technologies inside out and back to front.

The highly skilled team at Metal-Tech Industries can recommend a cutting technology that will provide you with the best possible finished product within your time and budget constraints. Get in touch with us today to discuss your project in more detail.