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Cutting plywood with a CO2 laser machine requires an understanding of the material’s characteristics and the proper machine settings to achieve clean, precise cuts. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of laser-cutting plywood, discuss the best types of plywood for the process, and provide recommendations to optimize your results.
Choosing the right plywood
Not all types of plywood are suitable for laser cutting. When selecting plywood, consider the following factors:
- Plywood grade: the quality and complexity of the cutting process depend on the plywood grade. Lower-grade plywood may contain defects such as cracks, excessive flexibility, air pockets between veneer layers, and inconsistent sheet thickness. The best grades for laser cutting are I, I/II, and II. Grades III, III/IV, and IV often have structural flaws that can lead to failed cuts.
- Plywood thickness: the most suitable thickness for laser cutting is up to 6 mm. When cutting plywood between 8–10 mm, excessive soot buildup can occur along the edges, and the cutting speed decreases significantly.
- Veneer type: birch veneer is the most suitable for laser processing due to its uniform composition and minimal glue content, which ensures a cleaner cut.
Cutting process
Once the appropriate material has been selected, you can proceed with the cutting process. The first step is to adjust the laser power and speed settings. It is advisable to configure these settings with a margin of flexibility in case the laser encounters a knot or an area with excessive glue.
Another crucial factor for achieving clean cuts is proper air assist. A powerful airflow prevents soot buildup and minimizes the need for post-processing. For optimal results, use a high-powered air compressor—a pressure of 1.5 to 2 atmospheres is generally sufficient to ensure clean edges.
Recommendations for engraving on plywood
For engraving, it is best to reduce the airflow and engrave across the grain. To improve the engraving quality, consider using masking tape, which protects areas outside the engraving from soot. However, masking tape is practical only for simple designs without intricate details, as it can be difficult to remove from small fragments.
Wattsan CNC laser machines are designed with a rigid frame structure, 3M belts, and belt gearboxes, ensuring precision without blurring when cutting or engraving intricate patterns.
Key considerations for cutting plywood (6–10 mm)
- Strong air assist: the more powerful the airflow, the cleaner the cut.
- Lens selection: use a medium focal length (3 inches / 76.2 mm) or long focal length (4 inches / 101.6 mm) lens.
- Power and speed adjustments: these settings should be adjusted carefully to accommodate variations in the plywood’s composition.
- Proper alignment: ensuring correct laser alignment prevents angled or sloped cuts.
Cutting plywood over 8 mm thick
For thicker plywood (over 8 mm), use a 100W or 130W laser tube. Follow the rule of 10W per 1 mm of plywood thickness, but operate the laser tube at 80% of its maximum power to prolong its lifespan.
Additionally, to prevent rifled kerfs, regularly check the belt tension—belts should neither sag nor be overly tight.
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Conclusion
Achieving clean and precise cuts on plywood with a CNC laser machine requires the right material selection, machine settings, and maintenance practices. By following these recommendations and ensuring proper alignment, airflow, and laser power, you can significantly enhance cutting efficiency and quality. At Wattsan, we continuously improve our machines based on customer feedback, providing high-precision solutions for laser cutting and engraving.
