The truth is that, like many things in life, laser cutting machines will pose a serious threat if and only if the necessary precautions are not taken before, during, and after operation. There are definitely certain risks associated with laser cutters like the potential for toxic fumes (some of which are known to be carcinogenic or irritant to the lungs in other ways), fires, and physical bodily injury that are not associated with other kinds of cutting machines like die cutters. Luckily, there are some quick simple ways to avoid these hazards and to cut projects cleanly and exercising the best practices in safety
Laser cutters have been in existence since the mid-1960s. Initially fiber lasers were used to cut metal exclusively.This use was the norm for a number of years.
Later on in the 1970s, CO2 lasers were invented that would allow for the cutting of thinner materials and other materials that were not comprised of metal like fabrics.
Since that time three main kinds of lasers have been in existence: fiber, CO2, Nd (Neodymium) Nd:YAG (Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet). CO2 lasers are the most popular type since they can cut such a wide variety of materials, not only metals.
Laser Classes chart
Lasers are classified based on their potential for causing injury — especially eye damage, since the eye is most susceptible to excess laser light.
There are four main classes for visible-beam lasers: Class 2, Class 3R, Class 3B and Class 4. The first two are relatively safe for eye exposure; the last two are hazardous. The chart below shows that the eye injury hazard increases as the laser’s power increases.
Best Practices for Safe Operation
Before using a laser cutter, be sure you have been trained by a qualified individual. A written procedure covering laser cutter use is recommended.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when operating a laser cutter.
Keep a logbook detailing who has used the laser cutter, cutting time, and materials cut.
A fire extinguisher should be mounted on the wall near the laser cutter.
Regular vacuuming of the cutting deck and the internal cavity of the laser cutter is very important for preventing fires!
Some materials such as PVC produce hydrogen chloride gas which is extremely dangerous. If you are unsure if your material is safe to cut, contact the KASU LASER Office.
Never leave an operating laser cutter unattended.
Avoid placing laser cutters on wooden surfaces.
Know how setting the pulse rate of the laser affects the chance of a fire and the resolution of the cut.
Never defeat laser interlocks built into the cutter. This could allow the beam to escape from the laser cutter.
From KASU Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd.
Epilog Laser makes affordable laser cutters. You can visit their website at www.epiloglaser.com. You can also check out Litron.
1988
Secondhand industrial laser cutters for the textile industry can be purchased from online retailers such as Alibaba. In addition, they can be purchased from wholesale retailers such as Direct Industry.
US company EPILOG
Yes, diamond cutters use lasers to cut diamonds.
There are 6 steps to using a laser cutter at home on the wikihow.com/Use-a-Laser-Cutter website. If you follow the website instructions you should be fine.
I have seen many mixed Mideast uses for lasers cutters, from glass to paper. Personally, I do not have one, but know from experience they can be useful. Laser clutters can be expensive, I can't imagine someone owning one without a specific purpose.
Plasma cutters can be very dangerous to the eyes of a person, especially to the iris. This can be counteracted by having adequate glasses when using plasma cutters. Other danger is the ingestion of fumes from plasma cutters use.
The laser won't blind you, as the CD will cover it when in use. However, the laser can be dangerous for your eyes so be careful.
CNC cutters are known for being laser active. They are used regularly at mills. Using these help in the reduce of debris spitting up into someone's eye.
Some laser pens are not dangerous indoors. A laser pen with five mW will not harm someone and is visible enough to see. But other pens which have one hundred mW are very dangerous and are a hazard.
Most professions involved in the use of laser cutters are in the manufacturing field by Tool Engineers and trained Operators. However, laser cutting machines are also used in Architecture, Carpentry or woodworking, Ceramics, and IT industries.