Laser Induced Thermal Effects and Accuracy in Polycarbonate Cutting
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Abstract
This research investigates into the CO2 laser cutting process applied to polycarbonate materials of varying thicknesses. Investigating laser power, cutting speed, standoff distance, and cutting diameter, the study focuses on responses such as heat-affected zones and kerf diameters. Through advanced microscopy and coordinate measuring tools, interaction effects were assessed using variance analysis. Measurements were made using Meiji Techno MT7000 Metallurgical Microscope and the CRYSTA-Apex S 900 CNC Coordinate Measuring Machine. Interactions effects of data were calculated by analysis of variance. Notably, higher cutting speeds coupled with lower laser power yielded optimal heat-affected zones. Standoff distance emerged as a critical factor influencing material cut-through capacity. The results show that optimum levels of heat affected zone were possible by applying higher cutting speeds and lower laser power. Standoff distance had the most impact on the ability of the material to be cut through.
Manuscript received: 14 Jun 2025 | Revised: 19 Aug 2025 | Accepted: 30 Aug 2025 | Published: 30 Nov 2025
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