6kw laser cutting

[kbowers]

Does anyone one have an opinion on whether or not cutting thick steel plate with a 6kw laser is cost effective? Lets say vs. a plamsa or oxyfuel cutter. The thickness is in the range of 25-35mm

 

Depends on tolerances and finishes. Oxyfuel and plasma are both cheaper if you can live with some slag and thermal distortion. Water jet will probably give you an even nicer cut than laser, but it is slow, ditto for wire edm. It all depends on what tolerance and post-cut conditions that you NEED.

 

[kbowers]

Ok thank you for the information. I am looking for low HAZ and no burs and little dross. For the next question 4kw vs 6kw on 25-32 mm. Are the cost offsetable?

 

4kw might be a little slow on that thickness of plate. IE: the slower you burn with a laser, the more dross you get and the more heat is put into the work. Hope that helps.