Laser cutting is the process of using a laser cutting machine to cut into materials such as metal. Laser cutting was once used only by industrial manufacturing companies but with the advent of inexpensive laser machines, it’s now becoming commonplace. But laser machines come with different specs and wattage is one of the most important features to consider when making a purchase decision.
In this guide, we’ll explore the capabilities and limitations of a 40 watt laser when it comes to cutting metal, alternative solutions, and the best options for achieving clean and precise cuts.
Table of Contents
Can a 40 Watt Laser Cut Metal?
In short, a 40 watt CO₂ laser is not powerful enough to cut through metal. While it can engrave coated metals, it lacks the power required to penetrate and cut through solid metal surfaces.
CO₂ lasers with this wattage are mainly used for cutting materials like wood, acrylic, leather, and certain plastics.
Why Can’t a 40 Watt Laser Cut Metal?
Several factors make metal cutting difficult for a low-powered 40W CO₂ laser:
- Absorption Issues – CO₂ lasers operate at a wavelength (~10.6 µm) that is not easily absorbed by metal, making cutting inefficient.
- Power Limitations – Metal requires high energy density to cut, typically at least 150W for thin sheets and much higher for thicker metals.
- Heat Dissipation – Metal dissipates heat quickly, requiring a much stronger laser to maintain a cutting temperature.
- Lack of Assist Gas – Many metal-cutting lasers use oxygen or nitrogen as an assist gas to aid in the cutting process, something 40W lasers are not equipped to handle.
What Can a 40 Watt Laser Cut?
Even though the 40-watt laser may not cut metal, you can still use it for laser cutting lots of other materials. The rule of thumb is to use the laser machine on materials that are softer than metal.
A 40 Watt laser would work best when using the following materials:
- Wood
- Acrylic
- Card stock
- Rubber
- Leather
- Paper
- Natural and synthetic fabric
What Can a 40 Watt Laser Do on Metal?
Although it cannot cut metal, a 40W CO₂ laser can still be used for:
- Engraving Coated Metals – It can mark anodized aluminum, painted metal, and coated stainless steel.
- Etching with Spray Coatings – Using laser marking sprays like Brilliance Laser Inks, a 40W laser can etch designs onto metal surfaces.
Can a 40 Watt Diode Laser Cut Metal?
A 40-watt diode laser generally cannot cut metal directly due to its limited power and wavelength. However, it can engrave coated metals or anodized aluminum. For actual metal cutting, a fiber or CO₂ laser with significantly higher wattage (typically 1000W or more) is required.
What Wattage Laser Will Cut Metal?
Most metals, including stainless steel and carbon steel, need at least 500 Watts to cut through them, so the higher wattage you have in your laser cutting machine, the faster your metal surface will melt.
Most fiber lasers that cut metal are pricey and can easily cost as much as $10,000 – $50,000 depending on the wattage you go for.
You can still get a good fiber laser engraver for much less. Refer to this buying guide that has great fiber laser engraving machines.
When it comes to purchasing a laser cutter for cutting through metal, you’ll want to do your research and find one that’s right for you and that fits your budget.
Alternatives for Cutting Metal
If you need to cut metal, consider the following options:
- Fiber Lasers (50W – 1500W) – A fiber laser engraver in the 20W-100W range can engrave metals, while higher-wattage models (500W+) can cut thin metal sheets.
- CO₂ Lasers (150W – 600W) – High-powered CO₂ lasers (150W and above) can cut thin metal with the help of an oxygen assist gas.
- Plasma Cutters – If you need a budget-friendly metal-cutting tool, plasma cutters are effective for cutting through various metal thicknesses.
- Waterjet Cutting – For precise and clean cuts, waterjet cutting machines are a viable alternative, especially for thicker metal sheets.
- CNC Router – For cutting non-ferrous metals – aluminum, brass, and copper.
- Manual Cutting – Using a Bench Shear, a bench-mounted tool engineered for precise metal cutting while maintaining maximum leverage and control.
Alternative for Cutting Metal – CNC Router
When it comes to cutting metal, traditional methods like laser cutting, water jet cutting, and plasma cutting are commonly used. However, CNC routers can also be an excellent alternative for cutting non-ferrous metals like aluminum, brass, and copper.
While they are not ideal for cutting ferrous metals such as steel, they offer a cost-effective and precise solution for softer metals.
Why Use a CNC Router for Cutting Non-Ferrous Metals?
- Affordability – Compared to industrial laser or plasma cutters, CNC routers are a more budget-friendly option.
- Precision – CNC routers can achieve high accuracy, making them ideal for detailed cuts.
- Versatility – These machines can be used for a wide range of materials, including wood, plastics, and non-ferrous metals.
- Ease of Use – With modern software and user-friendly interfaces, CNC routers are accessible to both professionals and hobbyists.
- Minimal Heat Generation – Unlike laser or plasma cutters, CNC routers produce less heat, reducing the risk of warping metal.
Tips for Cutting Non-Ferrous Metals with a CNC Router
- Use the Right Cutting Bits – Carbide or diamond-coated bits work best for cutting metal.
- Reduce Feed Rate – Slower feed rates prevent overheating and improve cut quality.
- Use a Cooling/Lubrication System – Helps prevent material buildup and extends tool life.
- Secure the Material Properly – Proper clamping reduces vibrations and ensures accuracy.
- Perform Multiple Passes – Cutting in layers improves precision and reduces stress on the tool.
If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional metal-cutting methods, a CNC router can be an excellent choice for non-ferrous metals.
Budget CNC Router For Non-Ferrous Metals
LUNYEE 3018 PRO MAX CNC Machine
The LUNYEE 3018 PRO MAX CNC Machine is a budget-friendly yet powerful CNC router designed for hobbyists and small-scale professionals. Featuring a 500W spindle, an all-metal structure, and GRBL offline control, this machine offers precision and durability. With a working area of 300 x 180 x 80mm, it is well-suited for cutting non-ferrous metals like aluminum and copper, as well as wood, acrylic, MDF, and plastic.
Key Features
Powerful 500W Spindle
- The high-speed 500W spindle delivers consistent cutting power, making it ideal for aluminum, copper, and other non-ferrous metals.
- Supports a spindle speed range of 0-12,000 RPM, enabling precise cuts even on tough materials.
- Maximum movement speed of 5000mm/min, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.
All-Metal Construction for Stability
- Unlike many CNC routers that use plastic parts, the 3018 PRO MAX boasts a reinforced aluminum frame.
- The durable construction increases stability, longevity, and resistance to vibration, enhancing cutting precision.
Extended Z-Axis Travel
- Offers 80mm of Z-axis travel, one of the longest in its class.
- Includes a 12mm optical axis for smooth and precise linear motion.
- Upgrade kits are available for further enhancements.
Enhanced Safety Features
- Equipped with six limit switches and an emergency stop button for safe operation.
- Manual XYZ handwheels allow for precise positioning, improving ease of use.
Two-in-One CNC & Laser Compatibility
- Supports spindle and laser engraving, making it a versatile tool for cutting, engraving, marking, and etching.
- Allows users to switch between cutting and engraving modes, maximizing efficiency.
User-Friendly Installation & Control
- Comes with GRBL offline control for PC-free operation.
- Includes a 4G USB flash drive with pre-installed software.
- Installation and wiring tutorial videos are available for easy setup.
Performance and Usability
The LUNYEE 3018 PRO MAX offers impressive cutting performance for its price range. The 500W spindle ensures smooth cutting through aluminum and copper, making it a top choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals working with non-ferrous metals. The extra-long Z-axis travel allows for deeper cuts, and the stable aluminum frame minimizes vibrations, improving precision.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful 500W spindle for cutting non-ferrous metals.
- All-metal frame for durability and stability.
- 80mm Z-axis travel for deep cutting capacity.
- Supports laser engraving in addition to CNC cutting.
- Enhanced safety features including limit switches & emergency stop.
- Pre-installed software & offline control for easy operation.
Cons:
- Not ideal for ferrous metals like stainless steel.
- Manual assembly required, but tutorials are available.
- Upgrades are needed for professional-level precision cutting.
Final Verdict – Is It Worth Buying?
The LUNYEE 3018 PRO MAX is an excellent budget CNC router for cutting aluminum, copper, and other non-ferrous metals. It offers a robust build, powerful spindle, and versatile functionality, making it a great entry-level CNC machine for DIY projects, small workshops, and hobbyists. If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable CNC router under $500, this model is definitely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I cut with a 40 watt laser?
A 40-watt laser can cut materials like wood, acrylic, leather, fabric, paper, and thin plastics, but it is not powerful enough to cut metal.
How thick can a 40 watt laser cut?
A 40-watt laser can typically cut up to 1/4 inch (6 mm) of wood or acrylic, depending on the material type and settings.
How many watts laser to cut metal?
To cut metal, you typically need a fiber laser with at least 1000 watts (1kW). Thinner sheets (e.g., 1mm stainless steel) may be cut with around 500W, but for thicker metals, 2kW or more is recommended.
Can a 40 watt laser cut stainless steel?
No, a 40-watt laser is not powerful enough to cut stainless steel. You typically need a fiber laser with at least 500-1000 watts to cut thin stainless steel effectively.
Final Thoughts
Cutting through metal isn’t the easiest process, but with the right tools, equipment and technique, you can be a pro in no time! Once get the gist of it, it can be a lucrative hobby because there is always a demand for this service. And there aren’t very many people doing it. This is why we believe that starting a laser engraving business can be a very profitable venture.