ACRYLIC
the most popular material for laser processing
Acrylic
Acrylic is widely known as the most popular material for laser processing because of high achievable processing rates and superior cutting results. Kern’s CO2 laser will allow for a flame polished edge quality with a single pass of the cutting head. Beautiful, white frosty etchings are produced from the laser engraving process.
Using a special lens when cutting thick acrylic results in a straight cut edge with only one pass of the laser beam. Multiple engraving techniques can be used to etch a frosty white mark or a clear and smooth engraved look.
Benefits of a Laser System
Acrylic by nature can scratch easily if not handled properly. Laser cutting and engraving is a non-contact process, allowing acrylic to be cut without tooling which comes in contact with the material and can damage the surface of the acrylic.
Kern’s CO2 lasers cut acrylic with a single pass of the laser beam resulting in a flame polished edge quality that does not require post processing steps such as buffing or manual flame polishing of the processed edge.
The CO2 laser beam has a kerf as small as .005″, allowing parts to be nested tightly together maximizing sheet yield and reducing waste. Nesting software is available which will automatically nest complex parts together saving you money on each job you run.
Tips and Tricks
Nozzle Size Matters
When acrylic is cut or engraved a foggy appearance may be noticed around the processed area. This is most likely cause by too much concentrated air flow delivered to areas of the acrylic sheet that are still molten. To eliminate or greatly reduce this occurrence try using our wide nozzles. The larger nozzle orifice allows the assist air to be dispersed over a larger area eliminating the foggy appearance.
Tick Marks
Another common complaint we receive from customers is the appearance of tick marks on the back side of acrylic sheet after it has been cut. These tick marks are caused by the laser passing over areas that the acrylic is in contact with the aluminum honeycomb bed. Kern has developed several bed options which will reduce or eliminate these tick marks. Try using our paper honeycomb, rubber/aluminum spacers or acrylic slat table
What Kern laser should I consider?
OptiFlex
EcoFlex
