The Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Purchasing Acrylic Co2 Laser Cutting Machine

Last Updated - November

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Do you want a powerful cutting and engraving tool to help take your projects to the next level? Then a co2 laser cutter might be just the system you need! Surpassing any manual blade or CNC machine's capability, these laser systems offer unparalleled precision when processing a wide range of materials. But there are various factors to consider when purchasing a co2 laser. From setting a budget to laser power options, processing requirements, software and safety features &#; below we'll explore ten key factors you should consider before buying a laser cutter.

What Are CO2 Laser Cutters?

Before we begin, let's start with the basics. What is a co2 laser cutter?

CO2 laser stands for carbon dioxide laser. These machines use a CO2 laser tube to generate a laser beam that is projected out the end of the tube, reflected by a series of mirrors and refined by a focal lens onto the material's surface to either cleanly cut or etch a specific design. 

With their ability to process a wide range of materials, ranging from plastics to wood, glass and stone, and paper to foam co2 lasers are a popular choice for manufacturing, small businesses, schools, artists and hobbyists who want fast, flawless results on their projects and production line every time.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Laser Cutter?

If you're looking to expand your business or hobby and want to purchase a laser cutter, there are several important factors to consider. Unfortunately, with so many options available on the market, choosing a suitable laser cutter can be overwhelming. Below, we'll discuss the key factors you should consider when purchasing a laser cutter. 

Determine Your Budget

Of course, cost will always be a major consideration when it comes to any purchase &#; including laser cutters! However, by establishing your budget upfront, you can narrow down your options and avoid overspending. In addition, determining your budget can help you prioritise which features are essential and which ones you can compromise on. For example, you may need to settle for a smaller bed size or lower laser power if you have a limited budget. On the other hand, if you have a more significant budget, you can invest in higher-quality components and additional features that may improve your workflow and productivity. Additionally, knowing your budget enables you to explore financing options or consider purchasing a refurbished laser machine. 

Financing options are available for all laser cutters at Focused Laser Systems, including our Vision co2 lasers and dual-source laser systems and our refurbished machines to help you spread the cost.

What Materials Are You Looking To Process?

When purchasing a laser cutter, it's essential to consider what materials you're planning to process. For example, some materials like certain plastics emit harmful fumes when processed by a laser. In these cases, you'll need to purchase a more powerful extraction system to avoid health risks, or consider purchasing a fume filtration unit with your laser. You'll also want to consider the size and shape of the materials you're looking to process and make sure the bed size of the laser cutter you choose can accommodate the largest piece of material you plan on processing. Additionally, if you want to engrave around spherical objects, you'll need to factor in the cost of a rotary attachment. 

The Power of the Laser

When we talk about the power of a laser machine, we're talking about the laser tube, which is measured in watts, with higher-wattage tubes having the ability to cut or engrave materials faster and with greater precision than lower-wattage tubes. And equally the more powerful the laser tube, the thicker the materials you are able to process.

For example, if you're working with thin materials like paper or cardboard, a lower-wattage laser tube around 40 watts would be a great choice. However, if you want to cut through thicker materials like 2mm - 6mm wood or acrylics, we recommend a higher-wattage laser tube around 60w - 100w. And for those really thick pieces around 10mm - 20mm you would need to go for the larger wattage laser tubes around 130w - 150w.

Higher-wattage laser tubes can also help increase cutting speed and efficiency, thus reducing production time and costs. However, it's important to note that higher-wattage laser tubes require stronger cooling systems, which can affect the overall setup and maintenance costs, not to mention the replacement laser tube cost further down the line in a few years time.

Ultimately, the power level of your Co2 laser tube should match the specific needs of your project and business, which can be determined when you consult with a laser machine expert to determine the best option for you.

Size and Weight of the Machine

Co2 lasers come in various shapes and sizes, from small desktop laser cutters to large industrial-sized machines.

Firstly, consider the space you have available. Depending on the laser system, you'll need to factor in any additional equipment, like the cooling and extraction systems, along with the computer and space for users to operate the machine safely. Also, don&#;t forget about space to put your materials and products that you will be lasering !

Additionally, is there sufficient space to move the machine through the building to the designated area? Due to the size and weight of these systems, larger machines may need to be professionally dismantled and reassembled within the space or require specialised transportation equipment. So when buying a laser cutter, it's important to clarify if it includes professional installation.

Co2 Laser Training

When purchasing a CO2 laser, it's essential to consider the training requirements for operating the machine. Here are a few reasons why:

Safety: CO2 lasers can be dangerous if not used properly. They emit high-powered beams of light that can cause severe injury or even blindness. Proper training is necessary to ensure you and your staff know how to operate the machine safely and avoid accidents.

Efficiency: Learning how to use your CO2 laser properly can help you improve efficiency and productivity in your workflow. With proper training, you can optimise your settings for different materials and create higher-quality products in less time.

Maintenance: CO2 lasers require regular maintenance to keep them in tip-top working condition. Proper training will teach you how to identify and address common issues with the machine and how to clean and replace parts as needed, which can help you extend the life of your laser and minimise downtime due to repairs.

Be sure to factor in any necessary training expenses. More often than not, when you purchase from a reputable laser machine supplier, this can all be included upon delivery.

Safety features

When you purchase a laser system from a supplier in the UK, laser machines are classified, according to their safety levels, with a class range of 1-4. Class 1 is the safest and the perfect choice for schools, hospitals, and businesses looking for peace of mind. These features would include independent safety sensors on all doors, a laser tube protection circuit, a machine axis and laser power cut-off upon lid opening during operation or keys for hatch openings to negate accidental opening. 

On the other hand, a class 4 laser system wouldn't have these safety features in place and require additional precautionary measures to protect the user, such as supervision or protective eyewear. 

At Focused Laser Systems, all our Vision laser machines are class 1 and have an impressive suite of safety features.

Software

Control software is essential for operating a laser cutter, as this will allow you to tell the machine what part of your design to cut, engrave or score and at what speed and power settings to produce the desired result. 

LightBurn software is highly regarded in the laser industry because of its ability to work with nearly all laser machines and its advanced features that experts love. Alternatively, you have LaserGRBL and RDWorks to use, should you only require a more basic software package.

When you purchase a laser system from a reputable company, the supply, installation, setup and training of this software are generally provided when the machine is delivered. These types of software include some simple design features, such as shapes, lines and the ability to write text. However, for more complex design work, consider purchasing Adobe Illustrator, CorelDraw, or using InkScape.

Warranty

To avoid costly repairs or replacements, you should buy a laser cutter with an extensive warranty covering any potential defects or malfunctions. A manufacturer who offers a warranty on their products stands behind their product and is confident in its quality. Buying a laser cutter with a warranty ensures you're getting a high-quality product and the added peace of mind that if anything goes wrong, you can contact the manufacturer to resolve the issue.

With competitive price and timely delivery, Tiper sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

At Focused Laser Systems, our entire Vision Laser range comes with a 24 Month warranty, and our refurbished machines come with a 12 Month warranty. We also provide lifetime technical support with every machine purchase in case you run into any difficulties. 

Ongoing support

Laser systems are relatively simple to use. However, in the beginning, you'll inevitably face the odd hiccup. For example, if you're in the middle of a large production run and come across an issue, the last thing you want is to be told to submit a support ticket that will be responded to within 48 hours by your supplier. 

It's always worth asking what after sales support a laser company has in place. For example, can you pick up the and speak to a technician directly? Do they provide online resources or training videos? Faqs on processing particular materials? 

A reliable customer service team can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and successful experience with your new laser system. 

At Focused Laser Systems, we tell all our customers, when in doubt, to call us. For any issues that may arise, we will always try to fix or diagnose the problem remotely to ensure you are up and running again as soon as possible.

Maintenance, repairs and replacements

Like owning a car or a property, the expenses associated with owning a co2 laser don't end when you get it set up and plugged in. The truth is, even the most reliable laser systems need some TLC every once in a while. 

When purchasing a CO2 laser, it's essential to understand the types of maintenance required, such as cleaning and replacing mirrors and lenses and adjusting the beam alignment. In addition, it would help if you also considered the cost and availability of replacement parts, laser tubes, power supplies, and other components that may need to be repaired or replaced over time.

When considering the purchase of a CO2 laser machine, it's essential to research the availability and quality of maintenance, repair, and replacement services offered by the manufacturer or distributor. 

Choosing the right laser cutter can be a daunting task, given the multitude of models and specifications available in the market today. Whether you&#;re a hobbyist or running a small business, understanding what to look for in a laser cutter is crucial to making a well-informed purchase. This guide aims to simplify your buying process by breaking down key aspects of laser cutters and addressing common questions.

Types of Laser Cutters

Laser cutters generally come in three primary types: CO2, Fiber, and Crystal lasers. Each of these types serves different purposes and materials, making it essential to identify your specific needs.

CO2 laser cutters are the most common and are ideal for cutting non-metal materials like wood, acrylic, fabric, and rubber. The cutting speed is remarkable, and they produce high-quality, clean cuts.

Fiber laser cutters, on the other hand, excel at processing metals. They are highly efficient for materials like stainless steel, aluminum, and brass, offering superior precision and speed.

Lastly, crystal lasers are less common but are effective for specific industrial applications. They are generally major investments and are suited for high-volume production.

Laser Cutter

Important Features of Laser Cutters

When buying a laser cutter, several features should be on your checklist. Firstly, consider the power of the laser. Measured in watts, higher wattage allows for cutting thicker materials. For instance, a 40-watt CO2 laser cutter can efficiently cut materials up to 1/4 inch thick, while a 100-watt model can handle thicker materials easily.

Another critical feature is the bed size. Depending on the scale of your projects, opt for a larger bed size to accommodate bigger materials. Standard sizes range from 12x20 inches to up to 60x120 inches.

Finally, the software compatibility of the laser cutter is very important. Ensure it can work seamlessly with design software like AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator, or CorelDRAW.

How Much Should You Spend?

Your budget plays a significant role in your choice of laser cutter. Entry-level CO2 laser cutters typically start at around $200 to $2,000, suitable for hobbyists or low-volume work. For those looking to invest in a more robust machine for a small business, prices can range from $5,000 to $30,000, especially for advanced fiber laser cutters.

Ensure you account for any additional costs like maintenance, replacement parts, and consumables, which could further impact your budget.

Safety Considerations When Using Laser Cutters

Safety cannot be overlooked when operating a laser cutter. Look for models that come with built-in safety features such as automatic shut-off switches, fume extraction systems, and water cooling systems.

Fume extraction is critical when cutting materials like acrylic or wood, as they can emit harmful fumes. It's wise to invest in a suitable ventilation system to keep your workspace safe.

Common Questions about Laser Cutters

1. What materials can I cut with a laser cutter?
Most laser cutters can handle a variety of materials, including wood, acrylic, fabric, leather, and certain metals.

2. Do I need additional software to operate a laser cutter?
Yes, most laser cutters require design software for creating patterns and designs, which then need to be imported into the cutter's software.

3. Are laser cutters expensive to maintain?
Maintenance costs vary, but generally, they are manageable. Costs can include replacement lenses, mirrors, and routine servicing.

4. Can I learn to use a laser cutter easily?
Yes! Most laser cutters come with user-friendly software and tutorials, making it easier for beginners to learn how to use them efficiently.

Final Thoughts on Buying a Laser Cutter

Choosing the right laser cutter depends heavily on your specific needs and budget. By understanding the types of lasers, crucial features, and safety considerations, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals. With the right laser cutter, you can unlock limitless potential in your projects, be it for personal use or as a part of a growing business.

Armed with the insights provided in this guide, take the plunge confidently into your search for the perfect laser cutter. 

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