LaserUser.com Forum (formerly RDWorksLab)

I have an SH-G350 here - 50 watts...

I have been asked if I can find out what it would take to cut our aluminum labels with. Can it be done with this machine after it has been upgraded with a higher power laser? If so, which one? I realize that the laser power supply would most likely have to be replaced by a much more robust unit. Does anyone have any suggestions for where to buy the required upgrades?

This is a link to the material we use (0.025") for labels: https://www.jpplus.com/satin-blue-025-l ... heet-11472

It seems to be rather difficult to find a chart that would tell the information that I'm asking for. Maybe I've just not been searching in the right places.

Tony

You can certainly engrave on the coated aluminum but you will not be able to cut it. Cutting metal would require a different head with a gas assist [probably oxygen] and I would think a lot more power than you have available.

The issue with Aluminium is it is almost completely reflective to CO2 Lasers so it is not a question of raw power. You would find Stainless Steel easier to cut with gas at just over 100W (typically 150W+) and generally a different head. Waterjet or die cutting/stamping are better processes to look at for Aluminium IMO.

Thanks guys... I will pass that along.