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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Feb 2010
    Posts
    0

    Cutting XPS foam with cheap laser?

    First of all, I have no experience with lasers.

    Is there a cheap laser (~150EUR) that can cut 10cm thick XPS?

    AFAIK, there are two types of lasers: laser-diodes and real-lasers.

    I guess real-lasers would cut XPS with no problem but are expensive.

    Are laser-diodes strong enough to cut XPS?

    I understand that laser-diodes are better suited for engraving,
    because of focus problems, right? If I would somehow change the
    focus dynamically, would it then cut 10cm of XPS? At what speed?

    Thank you.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Dec 2008
    Posts
    1258
    Short answer: No.

    It would be a challenge for any laser to cut 10cm (4 inches) of XPS foam.

    A CO2 laser and correct optics would work, but you won't get a parallel cut.

    Hot wire is the best method for that thickness of foam, and much cheaper too.

    Zax.

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