How Thick of Material Can a Laser Cutting Machine Cut

When people ask me what’s the most common question I hear after decades in this industry, it’s this one: How thick of material can a laser cutting machine cut It’s a brilliant question because the answer isn't always straightforward. It depends on the material, the machine’s power, and its overall quality. At JIABEI TOOL, we’ve spent years engineering Thick Material Cutting Machine solutions that turn this complex question into a simple, confident answer for our clients.

What Factors Determine the Maximum Cutting Thickness

The first thing I explain to customers is that a machine’s maximum cut isn't just about laser power. It’s a symphony of factors. The type of laser—fiber, CO2, or diode—plays a huge role. The material’s properties are equally important; stainless steel cuts differently than acrylic or wood. Furthermore, the quality of the lens, the precision of the motion system, and the assist gas pressure all work together to define the limits. Our engineers at JIABEI TOOL optimize every single one of these components in our Thick Material Cutting Machine models to ensure you get the cleanest possible cut at the very edge of the machine's capability.

How Does Laser Power (Wattage) Affect Cutting Depth

This is the heart of the matter. Think of laser power as the muscle behind the cut. Generally, more wattage means the ability to cut through thicker materials. But it’s not just about raw power; it’s about controlled, focused power. A high-wattage laser with poor beam quality will struggle where a well-designed, lower-wattage machine might succeed.

Here’s a general guideline for our fiber laser cutters, which are a popular choice for metal fabrication:

These figures represent clean, high-quality cuts. While it's possible to process slightly thicker materials with reduced speed and quality, we always design our Thick Material Cutting Machine units for optimal performance within these ranges.

What Materials Can You Cut and How Thick

Different materials interact with the laser beam in unique ways. This is where your project needs meet our technical specs. Here’s a quick list of what you can achieve with a JIABEI TOOL Thick Material Cutting Machine

• Metals: This is our forte. From thin sheet metal to thick steel plates, our fiber lasers excel.

  • Carbon Steel: Up to 25 mm

  • Stainless Steel: Up to 20 mm

  • Aluminum Alloy: Up to 15 mm

  • Brass/Copper: Up to 8 mm

• Non-Metals: For materials like wood, acrylic, and leather, CO2 lasers are often the tool of choice.

  • Acrylic: Up to 25 mm

  • Wood/Plywood: Up to 20 mm

  • Engraving Rubber: Up to 15 mm

  • Fabric/Leather: Varies greatly based on type and focus.

Selecting the right type of Thick Material Cutting Machine is crucial. That’s why our consultants always start by understanding your primary materials.

Is It Possible to Cut Thicker Materials with a Lower Power Laser

I get this question a lot from shops looking to maximize their budget. Technically, yes, but you will face significant trade-offs. You’ll have to drastically reduce the cutting speed, leading to higher operating costs per part. The cut edge quality will often be poorer, with more slag (dross) on the bottom and a wider kerf. More importantly, you risk premature wear on the machine’s components. That’s why at JIABEI TOOL, we always recommend a machine that matches your most common workload. Pushing a machine to its absolute limit every day is a false economy. A robust Thick Material Cutting Machine is designed to operate reliably within its specified range.

Why Choose a JIABEI TOOL Laser Cutting Machine for Your Thick Materials

Because we build them to last. Having seen machines come and go, I can tell you that the secret isn’t just in the laser source. It’s in the rugged frame that minimizes vibration for precise cuts. It’s in the industrial-grade components that keep you running three shifts a day, five days a week. It’s in the intuitive software that makes operating a powerful machine simple. When you invest in a JIABEI TOOL machine, you’re not just buying a tool; you’re buying two decades of expertise poured into a reliable partner for your business. Our product line is built to be the definitive Thick Material Cutting Machine for professionals who cannot afford to compromise.

Have More Questions About Finding the Right Machine

The best way to answer the question "How thick can it cut" is with a real-world demonstration. We can take your specific material samples and put them to the test, giving you a clear, no-obligation report on what our machines can do for you. Contact us today to speak with one of our application specialists. Let's discuss your needs and find the perfect JIABEI TOOL Thick Material Cutting Machine to take your productivity to the next level.