Need help choosing the right laser system? We are here for you. Get a Free Consultation

Novanta Resources - Learn Before You Buy

We put together these guides, comparisons, and references to help you make better decisions about laser equipment. No sales pitch, just useful information you can act on.

Buying Guides

First time shopping for a laser? These guides walk you through the decision process step by step.

How to choose a fiber laser cutter guide
Guide

How to Choose the Right Fiber Laser Cutter

Power level, table size, laser source brand, and automation options. This guide covers the decisions that matter and helps you avoid overspending on features you will not use.

  • Matching power to your material and thickness requirements
  • Table size selection based on typical sheet dimensions
  • IPG vs Raycus vs MAX: what actually differs beyond the price tag
  • When exchange tables and automatic loading pay for themselves
Fiber laser vs CO2 laser comparison
Comparison

Fiber Laser vs CO2 Laser: Which One Do You Need?

Both technologies have strengths. This comparison gives you concrete data on cutting speed, operating cost, material compatibility, and maintenance so you can make the call based on your actual workload.

  • Speed comparison on common materials and thicknesses
  • Annual operating cost breakdown including electricity and gas
  • Material compatibility chart: what each technology handles well
  • Maintenance requirements and typical service costs
Workshop setup guide for laser cutting
Guide

Setting Up Your Laser Cutting Workshop

From power supply requirements to floor layout and ventilation, this guide covers everything you need to prepare your facility before the machine arrives.

  • Electrical requirements by machine power level
  • Floor space planning and material flow optimization
  • Fume extraction and ventilation requirements
  • Safety compliance and operator protection setup

Technical Reference

Data tables and specifications you can use for project planning and machine selection.

Material Cutting Thickness Guide

Maximum cutting thickness by material type and laser power level. These are practical maximums based on production-quality edge finishes, not theoretical limits.

Material 3kW 6kW 12kW 20kW
Carbon Steel 10mm 16mm 25mm 40mm
Stainless Steel 5mm 10mm 20mm 30mm
Aluminum 4mm 8mm 16mm 25mm
Brass 3mm 6mm 10mm 16mm
Copper 2mm 5mm 8mm 12mm

Thicknesses shown are for production-quality cuts. Maximum pierceable thickness may be higher but with reduced edge quality. Actual results depend on alloy grade, assist gas, and cutting head.

Operating Cost Comparison

Estimated hourly operating costs for fiber laser cutting versus traditional methods. Costs include electricity, gas, and consumables but exclude labor and overhead.

Method Hourly Cost Speed (6mm CS) Edge Quality
Fiber Laser 6kW $8-15 3.5 m/min Excellent
CO2 Laser 4kW $12-25 2.0 m/min Very Good
Plasma 80A $5-10 2.5 m/min Good
Waterjet $20-40 0.3 m/min Excellent

Costs are approximate and vary by region, utility rates, and gas pricing. CS = carbon steel. Plasma and waterjet costs include consumable wear. Fiber laser costs assume typical duty cycle.

Maintenance and Best Practices

Keep your laser running at peak performance with these practical tips from our engineering team.

Daily

Daily Checks

  • Inspect protective lens for contamination or damage
  • Check assist gas pressure and supply
  • Clear the waste bin and slag tray
  • Verify chiller water temperature and flow
  • Wipe down the work table surface
Weekly

Weekly Tasks

  • Clean linear guide rails and apply lubricant
  • Inspect the nozzle for wear and alignment
  • Check belt tension on gantry drive
  • Clean the dust filter on the electrical cabinet
  • Run a test cut and verify positioning accuracy
Monthly

Monthly Service

  • Replace chiller coolant if water quality has degraded
  • Inspect all safety interlocks and emergency stops
  • Check and clean the fume extraction filter
  • Verify laser power output against baseline
  • Backup CNC programs and parameter settings

Need Specific Technical Data?

We can send you detailed spec sheets, sample cutting videos, and parameter guides for your specific material. Just tell us what you need.

Request Technical Information