FAQ: What materials will cut and engrave with a laser?

Laser systems are versatile tools capable of cutting or engraving a wide range of materials. The exact answer to this question will vary based on the wavelength of the laser source installed on the chosen laser system.

Kern’s CO2 laser systems are generally equipped with a wavelength of 10.6 micrometers. This specific wavelength is particularly effective for processing wood, plastic, glass, foam, textiles, and light gauge metal. Machines in Kern’s lineup equipped with CO2 lasers include the OptiFlex, LaserCELL, MICRO, EcoFlex and OptiDual.

The wavelength of a fiber laser is typically around 1.06 micrometers (or 1060 nanometers), which places it in the near-infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum. This wavelength is especially effective for processing metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, brass, copper, titanium, and mild steel. The FiberCELL is Kern’s only laser model in this category.

Please visit our Applications & Materials page for additional information on specific materials and their most popular applications.