Maximizing ROI with High Power Laser Cutting (12kW+)
The Shift to High Wattage
A few years ago, 6kW was considered high power. Today, 12kW, 20kW, and even up to 60kW machines are transforming the industry. The investment is significant, but so are the returns.
The Game Changer: High-Pressure Air Cutting
High power enables the effective use of high-pressure air as an assist gas instead of expensive Nitrogen or Oxygen for many materials. For carbon steel up to 12mm-16mm, air cutting with a 20kW laser can achieve speeds comparable to O2 cutting but at a fraction of the gas cost, and with faster piercing.
Throughput Analysis
A 12kW machine doesn't just cut thicker; it cuts medium gauges much faster. For example, cutting 10mm SS with 12kW is 2-3 times faster than with 6kW. This means you can process two to three times the jobs in the same shift, drastically lowering your cost per part and increasing overall shop capacity.
