**Introduction
Laser cutting technology has made its impact in various industries by making it possible for precise and accurate cutting of materials. However, there are also some disadvantages associated with laser cutting technology. These disadvantages may limit the use of laser cutting technology in some applications. In this article, we will discuss two disadvantages of laser cutter.
**Disadvantage 1: High Cost
One of the significant disadvantages of laser cutter is its cost. Laser cutting machines are expensive, and this makes them difficult to acquire, especially for small and medium scale businesses. The cost of laser cutting machines varies, but the average price for a basic model is around $10,000 to $15,000. High-end models can cost as much as $100,000 or even higher. The high price of laser cutting machines makes it challenging for small and medium scale businesses to access the technology.
Another factor that increases the cost of laser cutting machines is the maintenance that comes with it. Laser cutting machines require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance, and this can be an added expense that some businesses may not be able to afford. Despite the high cost of laser cutting machines, the benefits of the technology can still outweigh the cost in some applications.
**Disadvantage 2: Limited Material Thickness
Another disadvantage of laser cutter is its limited capability to cut through thick materials. Laser cutting technology works best on thin materials such as paper, fabric, and plastics. While it can cut through some thicker materials such as metal sheets and wood, there is a limit to the thickness of material that a laser cutter can cut through.
The thickness of material that a laser cutter can cut through is determined by several factors, including the power of the laser, the focal length of the lens, and the type of material being cut. The more powerful the laser, the thicker the material it can cut through. However, even with a powerful laser, there is still a limit to the thickness of material that can be cut. For example, a 400 watts laser can cut through a maximum thickness of 10mm for mild steel, while a 1000 watts laser can cut through a maximum thickness of 20mm.
**Conclusion
In conclusion, laser cutting technology has its advantages and disadvantages. Two significant disadvantages of laser cutter are its high cost and limited capability to cut through thick materials. Despite these limitations, laser cutting technology is still an advanced cutting method that has revolutionized several industries and will continue to do so in the future. For small and medium scale businesses, outsourcing laser cutting services or renting laser cutting machines can be a more cost-effective solution than acquiring one.