Yes, acrylic can be laser cut. However, you would need to check with the manufacturer of your laser and verify that your particular laser can cut acrylic.
Lasers are a quick and accurate way of cutting, welding, drilling, scribing, and engraving plastics. They focus a large amount of energy on a minimal area. The acrylic where the laser is focused is vaporized. A laser cutter has a very narrow kerf which allows minimal waste. This makes it easy to cut complex shapes and pieces with close tolerances. Laser-cutting acrylic results in clean, polished edges.
Because of stress levels in acrylic created by cutting in this manner, annealing the material is recommended. This will help prevent crazing during service life.
A proper exhaust system must be utilized to evacuate the vapors the laser produces, as these can be toxic.
Title: Can you laser cut Acrylic?
Description: Some of the benefits of using CO2 lasers for cutting acrylic.
Published: 11/1/2007
Last Edited: 1/4/2023
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