The History of laser cutting machine.

The History of laser cutting machine 

The history of laser cutting machines dates back to the early 1960s when the first laser was developed. Here is a brief overview of the history of laser cutting

1).     Invention of the Laser: The concept of laser cutting originated from the invention of the laser itself. In 1960, Theodore Maiman, an American physicist, developed the first working laser using a synthetic ruby crystal. This breakthrough in laser technology paved the way for various industrial applications, including laser cutting.

2).    Development of CO2 Lasers: In the early 1970s, researchers discovered that carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers had the potential to produce a high-power continuous wave beam, making them suitable for industrial cutting applications. CO2 lasers utilize a mixture of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and helium gases to generate the laser beam.

3).   Introduction of Laser Cutting: The concept of using lasers for cutting materials was first introduced in the late 1960s. In 1967, Peter Houldcroft, a British scientist, demonstrated laser cutting by using a CO2 laser to cut a hole in a diamond. This demonstration showcased the potential of lasers in precision cutting applications.

4).    Advancements in Laser Cutting Technology: Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, laser cutting technology rapidly advanced. New CO2 lasers were developed with higher power outputs, allowing for faster and more efficient cutting. Researchers also worked on improving beam quality, focusing systems, and control software to enhance the precision and versatility of laser cutting machines.

5).    Industrial Adoption: By the 1990s, laser cutting had become a popular industrial process. Companies in various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics, began using laser cutting machines for their fabrication and manufacturing needs. Laser cutting offered several advantages over traditional cutting methods, including higher speed, accuracy, and the ability to cut a wide range of materials.

6).   Continuous Innovations: Over the years, advancements in laser technology and machine design have further improved laser cutting capabilities. Solid-state lasers, fiber lasers, and diode lasers have been developed as alternatives to CO2 lasers, offering new possibilities and higher performance in laser cutting machines. Continuous advancements in control systems, automation, and software have also resulted in more efficient and versatile laser cutting processes.

Today, laser cutting machines are widely used in numerous industries for precision cutting of various materials, such as metals, plastics, wood, and fabrics. The technology continues to evolve, with ongoing research and development aimed at further enhancing cutting speed, quality, and the range of materials that can be cut using lasers.