Laser Cutting & Engraving Parameter Setting Guides
Please note these are estimated/starter setting guides only. * Cutting parameters are offered only as a ‘guideline’ and assume ‘average’ working conditions. Many things affect the cut quality and speed of laser cutting, which can create many variables in performance. For example, tube power & condition/age, mirror/lens cleanliness, and accurate alignment.
Easy to use parameter calculator
Remember to recalculate the form if you change any of the settings below.
CO2 Laser Cutting Typical Thickness
40W Laser
You can typically cut up to 5 mm acrylic and 6 mm soft wood using a 40w laser. A basic rule with cutting acrylic is that the slower the cut, the nicer the edge, so if you reduce the speed enough, you can achieve a smooth, polished edge.
60W Laser
You can typically cut up to 8mm acrylic and up to 8mm soft wood using a 60w laser. Use the speeds and powers calculator below to give you indicative figures to test on your material, making sure you follow safety guidelines.
80W Laser
You can typically cut up to 10mm acrylic and up to 9 mm soft wood using an 80w laser. Use the speeds and powers calculator below to give you indicative figures to test on your material, making sure you follow safety guidelines.
120W Laser
You can typically cut up to 15 mm acrylic and up to 12 mm soft wood using a 120w laser. Use the speeds and powers calculator below to give you indicative figures to test on your material, making sure you follow safety guidelines.
150W Laser
You can typically cut up to 20 mm acrylic, and up to 15 mm soft wood using a 150w laser. Use the speeds and powers calculator below to give you indicative figures to test on your material making sure you follow safety guidelines.
Other Engravable Materials
Granite, Marble, Slate, Glass, Anodised Metal, Ceramics
CO2 Laser Material Tips and Tricks
Acrylic
When cutting acrylic on a CO2 laser, you will always achieve better results when using cast acrylic as opposed to extruded
acrylic. We always recommend you purchase cast acrylic when laser cutting as you will find using cast acrylic will get you
better results than extruded acrylic.
Wood
Always remember to check the air regulator is fully open when cutting wood; the more air blowing onto the wood’s surface, the cleaner the finish and less burning. Ensure proper ventilation, as some fabrics may release fumes. These steps will help you achieve precise and professional finishes on your fabric projects.
Laser Engraving Laminate
For the best results when cutting and engraving laser engraving laminate, start by securing the material to prevent shifting. Use moderate power and slower speeds to achieve clean cuts and sharp engravings. Always test on a scrap piece first to fine-tune your settings. Ensure proper ventilation, as laminates can release fumes during the process, and keep your machine clean to maintain consistent performance.
Paper & Card
Paper and cardboard are excellent materials for laser cutting and engraving, allowing for clean, precise designs. Use low power settings to prevent burning or discoloration, and test on a small piece first. Ensure proper ventilation, as these materials can produce smoke, and always monitor the process to avoid fire risks. For engraving, adjust speed and power for crisp, detailed results without over-etching.
Fabric
When cutting and engraving fabric with a laser, use moderate power settings to avoid burning or fraying the edges. Secure the fabric flat to prevent movement during the process for clean, accurate results. Always test on a scrap piece to adjust the laser speed and power for the specific fabric type, as materials like cotton, polyester, and felt react differently. Ensure proper ventilation, as some fabrics may release fumes. These steps will help you achieve precise and professional finishes on your fabric projects.
Other (Engraving)
Certain materials cannot be cut with a CO2 laser but can still be engraved, such as granite, marble, slate, glass, anodised metal, and ceramic. Engraving these tough materials requires high power to mark the surface.
Glass: Use a damp kitchen roll on the surface to reduce flaking and improve the finish. Turning off the air compressor can also help.
Metals: For non-anodised metals, use a thermal marking spray or tape like Cermark for effective engraving.
Materials to Avoid Cutting on a CO2 Laser
There are a few materials which produce toxic fumes when cut on a laser machine, these include but are not limited to Polycarbonate and PVC. Any material containing chlorine is also toxic.
It is normally apparent if a material is toxic, as when cutting, the material will produce a thick brown/green cloudy smoke
which has a very powerful smell.
If you have any concerns regarding the materials you are cutting or how to extract them safely please consult a filtration and extraction specialist.Â
Alternatively, your material supplier should also be able to advise you.Here goes your text … Select any part of your text to access the formatting toolbar.