Copper cutting is the process of severing or shaping a copper workpiece, typically using a specialized tool or machine. While various methods exist, laser cutting is a prominent technique.
Laser Cutting Copper
Laser cutting involves using a focused beam of light to melt, burn, or vaporize the copper material along a precise path, effectively creating a cut.
- Fiber Lasers: These are generally considered the best choice for laser cutting copper. Copper efficiently absorbs the blue, violet, and ultraviolet wavelengths emitted by fiber lasers.
- CO2 Lasers: While less efficient than fiber lasers for copper, CO2 lasers can also be used for this purpose.
Other Copper Cutting Methods
Besides laser cutting, copper can be cut using various traditional methods:
- Sawing: Using a metal-cutting saw (e.g., hacksaw, bandsaw) to mechanically cut the copper.
- Shearing: Employing a shearing machine to cut copper sheets or plates.
- Waterjet Cutting: Utilizing a high-pressure water jet, sometimes mixed with abrasive particles, to cut copper.
- Machining: Using machines like mills or lathes to remove material and create specific shapes.
The choice of cutting method depends on factors such as:
- Material Thickness: Thicker copper may require more powerful cutting methods.
- Precision Requirements: Laser cutting offers high precision and intricate designs.
- Production Volume: Some methods are better suited for high-volume production.
- Cost: The cost of equipment and operation varies between methods.
