Aluminum laser cutting machines: how to choose the right one

How to choose the laser machine for aluminum

When investing in a laser machine there are several parameters to consider to get the best return over the long term too. For aluminum laser cutting in particular, the selection criteria are:

Fiber or CO2 laser

The first choice concerns the laser technology to invest in. In metal cutting, CO2 laser was long the leading option on high thicknesses. The evolution of fiber laser has, however, made this technology preferred for cutting metals, aluminum included, because it is more efficient and precise.

Laser system power

Power is one of the most important parameters in choosing the machine. On high thicknesses of aluminum, high cutting power is needed. Cutlite Penta machines, with the Evo 4 cutting head that supports power up to 40 kW, are also valued for aluminum fiber laser cutting.

Cutting speed

Aluminum can also be cut at high speeds. A machine that lets you cut the material quickly is useful to increase productivity. Cutting speed depends on laser power and the machine's ability to keep cut quality at high speeds too.

Ease of use

The completeness and ease of the software are essential for practical, flexible use of the machine. Before investing, it is worth checking that the software allows easy programming and has advanced functions for more precision and control in machining.

Technology quality

Hardware is also crucial for frequent, continuous use. The machine must have a good cooling system. The quality of components and assembly means less maintenance, longer life and consistent production quality.

Technical support

An aspect too often underestimated is being able to count on reachable, competent technical support. Preferring a low price at the expense of quality support is a mistake that, over the long term, increases costs and problems.

Choose your aluminum laser cutting machine

The Cutlite Penta fiber laser machines for cutting aluminum are designed and built in-house, for high reliability and quality. The technology developed in-house lets you cut metals with high speed, power and quality. Ideal on high thicknesses of aluminum too, they can be configured with 5-axis systems for large-format cutting. The laser systems for aluminum divide into:

Linear laser cutting machine

Fiber laser systems with linear motors and the Evo 4 cutting head suit the cutting of different metals, such as aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, galvanized sheet, zinc, copper, bronze and brass.

Tube laser cutting machine

For cutting tubes and profiles, Cutlite Penta has fiber laser systems up to 5 axes, with high cut-quality and speed performance and a flexible technology for open or closed profiles.

Combo laser cutting machine

Among the Cutlite Penta fiber laser machines there are also flexible systems for flat and tube machining, with automatic switchover thanks to the Evo 4 cutting head.

Frequently asked questions

Is fiber or CO2 laser better for aluminum?

Today fiber laser is preferred: it is more efficient and precise than CO2 in cutting metals, aluminum included, and with high power it covers high thicknesses too.

What power is needed to cut aluminum with a laser?

It depends on thickness: high thicknesses need high power. Cutlite Penta machines, with the Evo 4 cutting head, support power up to 40 kW.

What criteria should you consider when choosing an aluminum laser machine?

Six main criteria: technology (fiber or CO2), power, cutting speed, software ease, component and cooling quality, and technical support.

Does fiber laser cut reflective metals like aluminum?

Yes. Fiber laser cuts aluminum and other reflective metals such as copper and brass, as well as steel, stainless steel and galvanized sheet.