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How you can use a laser machine to cut and engrave fabrics.

You can produce fabrics in high quality with a beautiful laser engraving. The laser engraving creates a haptic effect. Whether engraving felt or extravagantly-shaped cuts of polyester – Laser CNC Machines for Fabrics offer incredible design possibilities in textile processing. Synthetic fabrics respond very well to laser processing. With laser cutting, the laser beam melts the fabric in a controlled manner and prevents fraying. Denim fabric gets a “stonewash” effect without being treated with chemicals. The denim is bleached by the heat of the laser.

What fabric is suitable for laser treatment?

Wattsan managers often receive questions from the clients about what materials can be treated with a laser machine. High-tech laser equipment is focused on working with different types of materials. As for the fabrics, the most popular types are listed below.

Each fabric has its own features when treated by a laser. For example, a laser beam leaves yellowish edges when cutting cotton or linen fabric. It can be avoided by using certain lenses and cutting settings.

How does Fabric Laser Cutting Machine work?

This is where things get technical. There are three main types of lasers used for laser cutting: the CO2 laser, the neodymium (Nd) laser and the neodymium yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd-YAG) laser. For the most part, the CO2 laser is the method of choice when it comes to cutting wearable fabrics. This particular process involves firing a high-energy laser that cuts by melting, burning or vaporizing material.

To accomplish the precise cut, a laser travels through a tube-like device while being reflected by several mirrors. The beam eventually reaches a focal lens, which targets the laser to a single spot on the chosen material for cutting. Adjustments can be made to vary the amount of material that is cut by the laser.

Worker watching clutch driving plate being welded by laser

The CO2 laser, the Nd laser and the Nd-YAG laser all generate a concentrated beam of light. That said, differences in these types of lasers make each ideal for certain tasks. The Fabric Laser Cutting Machine is a gas laser that produces an infrared light. Laser CNC Machines for Fabrics are easily absorbed by organic material, making it the first choice when it comes to cutting fabrics like leather. Nd and Nd-YAG lasers, on the other hand, are solid-state lasers that rely on a crystal to create the light beam. These high-powered methods are well-suited for engraving, welding, cutting and drilling metals; not exactly haute couture.

What are the advantages of laser cutting of textiles?

Exact cutting edges – no fraying

Textile finishing by laser engravings

High precision when cutting of spacer fabrics

Sealing of cut edges when cutting synthetical textiles (cut & seal process)

No fabric distortion – due to contactless processing

Precise cutting of very filigree details

Less efforts of clearance due to reduced dust production when cutting

No tool wear – consistently high cutting quality

Processing in all directions – independent of fabric structure