Laser Power Calculator
Calculate required laser power for fiber and CO2 laser cutting based on material properties and cutting parameters. For detailed power selection guidance, see our Power Selection Guide or check Material Thickness Parameters for cutting speed references. After calculating power, browse our equipment database to find matching machines or compare equipment side-by-side.
Step 1: Select Material
Metal Materials
Non-Metal Materials
Calculation Methodology
Laser power requirements are calculated using material-specific properties including density, thermal conductivity, melting point, and vaporization energy. The formula accounts for:
- Material Thickness: Directly proportional to power requirements
- Cutting Speed: Higher speeds require more power
- Material Absorption: Different materials absorb laser energy differently
- Assist Gas Efficiency: Oxygen or nitrogen assist affects power needs
- Cut Quality Factor: Precision cuts require 20-80% additional power
Laser Type Selection
Fiber Lasers (1-30kW): Ideal for metals including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and titanium. Wavelength 1070nm provides excellent metal absorption.
CO2 Lasers (0.1-20kW): Best for non-metal materials like wood, acrylic, MDF, and plastics. Wavelength 10.6μm offers superior absorption in organic materials.
Note: Results are estimates. Actual power requirements vary based on equipment, beam quality, focus position, assist gas type, and environmental conditions. Consult manufacturers for specific applications.
Typical Power Requirements
| Material | Thickness (mm) | Typical Power Range | Laser Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild Steel | 3-6mm | 1-3 kW | Fiber |
| Stainless Steel | 3-6mm | 2-4 kW | Fiber |
| Aluminum | 3-6mm | 3-6 kW | Fiber |
| Acrylic | 3-10mm | 40-150W | CO2 |
| Wood | 6-12mm | 60-200W | CO2 |
Related Resources
Power Selection Guide
Comprehensive guide to choosing the right laser power for your application
CO2 vs Fiber Laser
Detailed comparison of laser technologies and applications
Equipment Database
Browse laser cutting machines with detailed specifications
Compare Equipment
Compare multiple laser cutting machines side-by-side