Are laser cutting systems used for prototyping or full production?
Both. The advantages of laser cutting systems being tool-free will always make them a superior option for prototyping work because there is no delay or expense for tooling. And better lasers and better software engineering have created speed improvements for handling full production as well. Improved beam shape allows the laser to be steered faster, and software improvements take this a step further by shaving milliseconds off of every operation to increase speeds even more. The software on today’s cutting systems also optimizes cutting sequences for faster throughput. Additionally, they use smart control systems to monitor operating conditions such as registration, web control, and integrated laminating and slitting operations, and they allow programming of automatic shut-off at the completion of runs or when material or machine conditions require. Note that the speed of laser cutting systems is highly job dependent. A very intricate cutting pattern involving a long cutting path will
