[brainy19]

Hi Everyone,

I'm currently designing a CNC Laser cutter that can cut sheets of copper, bronze or brass, aluminum, and steel up to 2mm or 3mm thick. I have done some research online and it seems that YAG Lasers are the best choice but since I'm working on a small budget (I can maybe save $2K in a couple months), I would appreciate your guys' advice on how I can build my own laser cutter that can cut the metals I mentioned on a budget. Please keep in mind that I'm not worried about the CNC aspect (movement of the laser head on an X and Y axis) since I have already made a design for myself and have experience building such systems.

If such a laser will inevitably be expensive, then please let me know what I would need to cut the metals I mentioned with high-quality (no jagged edges, etc).

[brainy19]

Oh, and being able to cut Polycarbonate and FR4 (carbon fiber) as well.

[awerby]

I'm pretty sure Polycarbonate is on the list of materials you can't (or at least shouldn't) cut with a laser due to poisonous fumes. FR4 would char on the edges. Metals are usually cut with fiber lasers. Most laser cutting machines cost in the range of $200k or more, so I'm doubting your budget will really stretch far enough, but please don't neglect the safety enclosure if you do build it.

[peteeng]

Hi Brain - I don't think your going to "cut it" at $2k budget. Heres a link to commercial machines will give you an idea of the power required...
https://www.hsglaser.com/products/sh...EaAoXtEALw_wcB Peter

[brainy19]

Thanks you guys, looks like cutting metals won't be an option for me.

Can I use a 40W CO2 laser to cut Polycarbonate and FR4 (carbon fiber) tho?

[ZASto]

No.

[allencncrouter]

now fiber power source is more popular with metal cutting .such as Raycus .
Fiber 1000w laser metal cutting machine cutting brass
https://youtu.be/Y4kRfVsUHg4